RICHMOND, VA (DEQ) — The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in coordination with the Virginia Drought Monitoring Task Force, established drought watch advisories for 28 counties.

The following areas are affected:

  • Northern Virginia: Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, and Prince William counties
  • Roanoke River: Bedford, Campbell, Charlotte, Franklin, Patrick, Halifax, Henry, Mecklenburg, Pittsylvania, and Roanoke counties
  • Upper James: Alleghany, Bath, Craig, Botetourt, Highland, and Rockbridge counties
  • Shenandoah: Augusta, Clarke, Frederick, Page, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren counties

Recent lack of precipitation has resulted in rapid declines in streamflow and groundwater levels, ranging from the northern portion of the Commonwealth, south along the Blue Ridge, to the south-central region of the state.

Officials say no action is required of the community at this time but conserve water when possible.