Drought, wildfires in Alabama. Plus latest seasonal drought outlook for USA

Drought smolders on as fires flare across Alabama

By Eddie Burkhalter, Star Staff Writer

November 22, 2016

The Anniston Star

‘Significant’ rain possible next week, forecasters say; 8,400 acres in state burned in November so far

Local firefighters responded to at least four brush fires on Tuesday, after months of nearly no rainfall and record drought continued to spark wildfires across Alabama.

Meanwhile, the state could see the first significant rain showers early next week, according to forecasters.

[...]

That rain is sorely needed. Firefighters have battled 706 wildfires statewide since Nov. 1, with more than 8,400 acres burned. In Calhoun County during that time 14 wildfires burned 161 acres, according to information Tuesday from the Alabama Forestry Commission.

Statewide, 13 wildfires were reported active, 24 contained and 12 controlled on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Forestry Commission.

[...]

Severe drought continues across Alabama, no end in sight

By Elizabeth Lauten

November 21, 2016

Alabama Today

While some areas of Alabama saw a sprinkling of rain this past week, severe drought continues to torment the vast majority of the state.

With well over a month without rain, coupled with record-breaking heat, federal statistics released this week show nearly 90 percent of the state is now in a severe drought, and 65 percent of the state is in an extreme or exceptional drought.

Even as seasonal cold fronts begin to arrive, there appears to be no relief in sight.

The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center has predicted warm and near-record dry conditions to continue in Alabama, and across the Southeast, throughout the fall and winter lasting through February.

Experts say at least a solid week of rain is needed for the state to “break even” and move past the drought.
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