COLUMBUS, Ohio — Portions of southeastern Ohio are currently experiencing what experts describe as an Extreme Drought, according to federal officials. The latest report from the National Drought Mitigation Center reveals that 2.7 million Ohio residents are living in drought-affected areas, a decrease of 10.6% from the previous week. This July was the 21st driest on record since 1895, with a total precipitation of 2.97 inches, which is 1.01 inches below normal.
Ohio State Representative Bob Peterson (R-Sabina), who represents Fayette, Highland, Pike, and Ross Counties, announced that the entire 91st House District is experiencing severe drought conditions. The U.S. Drought Monitor classifies these areas as D3, or Extreme Drought, qualifying them for assistance from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA).
“Our area is currently experiencing extremely dry conditions that are putting a strain on our livestock, crops, and water resources,” said Peterson. “I encourage those who are having these hardships to document the issues and report them to the USDA Ohio FSA.”
When a county reaches a D3 classification, residents become eligible for federal assistance programs. Peterson emphasized the importance of utilizing USDA disaster assistance programs and encouraged residents to review available resources and share the information with others.
