More than 99 percent of Walker County is currently experiencing drought conditions, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System.
Officials say the dry conditions are expected to persist through at least the next month, raising continued concerns about soil moisture, water supplies, and agriculture across the area.
Data from the drought monitoring system shows that January was unusually dry. The county recorded its 38th driest January in the past 132 years, with precipitation totals falling 1.66 inches below normal.
The ongoing rainfall deficit continues a pattern of below-average precipitation that has contributed to the widespread drought designation. Unless significant rainfall occurs in the coming weeks, drought conditions could intensify as the region moves closer to the spring growing season.
