According to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in coordination with the Virginia Drought Monitoring Task Force, the drought warning advisory has expanded to include 94 counties and 33 cities across the Commonwealth.

The following areas in the Shenandoah Watershed are included in the warning advisory: Augusta, Clarke, Frederick, Page, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren counties, along with the cities of Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, and Winchester.

In addition, groundwater levels and river flow within the Shenandoah Watershed are now at emergency warning advisory levels. Officials report that groundwater levels continue to decline and are expected to worsen as summer begins, with increased evapotranspiration and higher water usage impacting wells and water supplies.

These dry conditions are already creating widespread agricultural impacts and increasing the danger of wildfires across the region. The expanded drought declarations are also consistent with U.S. Department of Agriculture designations, allowing eligible farmers to apply for Farm Service Agency emergency loans.

All of us need to play our part in conserving water whenever possible and remain aware of local fire conditions.

To learn about May 14, 2026, VA DEQ Drought Advisory Update visit https://www.deq.virginia.gov/water/water-quantity/drought…