Moderate Drought Across Rutherford County

Drought conditions are rapidly expanding across Middle Tennessee. The National Weather Service reports all of Middle Tennessee is now considered in a drought. The persistent lack of widespread rainfall combined with well above normal temperatures has allowed drought conditions to grow. Most of Rutherford County is now in a moderate drought with 96-percent of the state experiencing drought conditions. Rutherford County has recorded nearly 10-inches below the normal rainfall for 2012 with not much relief in sight. Moderate drought means crops, plants or pastures may have some damage and fire risk is elevated. In addition, area rivers, creeks and streams are below normal and water shortages and restrictions may develop. The three month outlook for July, August and September indicates a higher probability of above normal temperatures and equal changes of above, below or normal precipation across Middle Tennessee.