Drought conditions now cover about 90 percent of Georgia and the intensity has increased, as well, with many places, including Hall County and several adjoining counties, now considered “moderately dry” as opposed to “abnormally dry.” Last week, drought conditions were reported in 52 percent of the state.
The U.S. Drought Monitor says the only places in Georgia remaining drought-free this week are all or parts of nine counties along the Florida line and portions of about 20 counties stretching from the south metro Atlanta area to Columbus.
The hardest hit areas this week are in southwest Georgia and an area between Hall County and Hartwell, which includes the adjoining counties of Barrow, Jackson, and Banks and northern Gwinnett.
The level of Lake Lanier is now at 1071.0, up 1.3 feet in the past week.