WASHINGTON - Drought conditions have worsened in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys, with Columbiana County experiencing the worst conditions in Ohio at extreme levels.

According to a U.S. Drought Monitor map released Thursday, southern and central parts of Columbiana County are now experiencing extreme drought, an increase from the severe conditions reported last week. The rest of the county, which had been under a moderate drought, is now classified as a severe drought area.

This elevated classification puts the entire county under the D2 level, indicating significant impacts on agriculture and grasslands. Carroll and Jefferson counties, neighboring Columbiana, are also under severe drought.

Mahoning and Trumbull counties in Ohio and Mercer County in Pennsylvania have all shifted from abnormally dry conditions to a moderate drought, compared to a week ago when the region was classified as abnormally dry. This change suggests worsening conditions with potential impacts on local water resources and agriculture.

 

 

The U.S. Drought Monitor uses four categories, from D1 (moderate drought) to D4 (exceptional drought), to classify drought intensity. These classifications are based on a convergence of evidence, including physical indicators like precipitation, as well as input from local experts.

The latest map indicates that the short-term drought impacts in the region are expanding and intensifying.