This new year begins with Abnormally Dry conditons for most of our area here on the Northern Gulf Coast (as of Jan. 1st). That's no surprise since December 2012 was below average in rainfall by just shy of 2 inches for the city of Mobile. Across Alabama, 70% of the state is dealing with Abnormally Dry conditions. Fourty-five percent of the state is suffering from a Moderate Drought, 20% suffering from a Severe Drought, and 10% is suffering from an Extreme Drought. The worst of it is being felt across East Central Alabama...east of I-65, between Auburn & Anniston.
Locally, 2013 has already brought some measureable rainfall. According to the Climate Prediction Center's "One Month Outllook," January looks to be a wet month with above average rainfall expected for the South & Southeast. That's great news for our minimal drought.
Meteorologist Deitra Tate
