Dry conditions continue for parts of our area, but another drought has not yet formed. The latest drought monitor shows that abnormally dry conditions are still the case for the New River and Roanoke Valleys, not to mention Southside, while areas near Lynchburg are about average.
However, the lack of additional rainfall could bring drought back, most likely first to Southside.
Believe it or not, Blacksburg actually has a small rainfall surplus, while Lynchburg and Southside have the largest deficits in area, ranging between about 4.5 and 7 inches. However, over the next few days, rain may be on the way again. Extended forecasts do show beneficial rain falling at times before August ends.
We will have to watch the tropics very closely. We could very easily have Hurricane Irene, which could be a a major hurricane, make landfall along the Carolina coastline over the next several days.
Some of that moisture could get thrown in our direction this weekend. How much rain we receive is completely dependent upon the track Irene takes. Right now that is still up in the air, and while areas to our east will likely see the heaviest rain, we may see some beneficial wet weather too.
Haniewich is chief meteorologist for WSLS Channel 10. His column is published every Wednesday.

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