June came gently to the area, offering sunny days with high temperatures ranging, depending on the day, between the low 70s and low 80s. Nighttime lows dipped into the 50s, but also forced a few air conditioners to come on when they reached 70.
Mild sunny days and clear nights predominated, but drought did as well. About 62 percent of Pendleton County, according to the National Weather Service, lay in the drought condition denoted as D2 – Severe Drought. This creates conditions where there is “crop or pasture loss likely, fire risk very high, water shortages common, water restrictions imposed.”
That served as an improvement over the onset of extreme drought conditions for about a week in May. More than 99 percent of the county at some point during that period saw the potential of “major crop/pasture losses, extreme fire danger, widespread water shortages or restrictions.”
Significant rains at the end of May pulled the county back into the lesser D2 category. Similarly, bands of rain showers coming at the end of June dropped the county into the lowest category, D1 – Moderate drought, where one could find “some damage to crops, pastures, fire risk high, streams, reservoirs, or wells low, some water shortage developing or imminent, voluntary water use restrictions requested.”
It is important to understand that the NWS only recommends, but does not mandate that local governments follow these measures described in terms of water restrictions. None are required to follow them, but to make decisions based upon local conditions.
The National Weather Service also reports that streamflow conditions are normal. Earlier in the spring at times, gauges on the South Branch and South Fork rivers showed that both flowed “much below” their normal rates for that time of year, as defined by the NWS.
The National Weather Service expects that drought conditions will persist through the season in almost all of Pendleton County and the Potomac Highlands region.
Starting on Tuesday, temperatures in the area rose to levels that are dangerous for some vulnerable individuals. On Monday, National Weather Service advisories expected “heat index values” on Tuesday to rise to 102 degrees with baseline temperatures in the low 90s. Temperatures were forecasted to elevate to 95 on Wednesday, 97 today, and remain in the mid to high 90s through the Independence Day weekend. Rains predicted for then should cool temperatures somewhat.
South Fork Valley residents will see forecasts similar to Franklin while North Fork Valley residents will see high 80s through low 90s. The temperature is forecast to see triple digits today in both Petersburg and Moorefield.
The Pendleton County Office of Emergency Management offers tips on how to avoid experiencing heat-related problems.
Hydrate Constantly: Drink plenty of fluids (water or sports drinks) even if a person doesn’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy sugary beverages.
Find Air Conditioning: Stay indoors. If one’s home lacks an air conditioner, visit a community library, mall, or designated cooling center. If needed, Pendleton County can provide access to a location to cool-off (cooling center).
Dress Smartly: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing alongside a wide-brimmed hat to protect the face.
Schedule Activities: Avoid high-energy tasks during midday heat (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Check on Others: Frequently check on children, older adults, neighbors, and anyone without air conditioning.
Learn the Signs: Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The public can find additional information at Ready.Gov in the Extreme Heat Guide.
Common pets, especially those accustomed to living indoors, are particularly vulnerable during major heat events.
The Pendleton County OEM advises first to never leave pets in cars, adding that “temperatures inside a parked car can rise to lethal levels in minutes, even with cracked windows.”
When preparing to walk a dog, apply the hand test to the pavement. Always press the back of the hand against the concrete for five to seven seconds. If it is too hot for one’s hand, walk on the grass or put “pet booties” on their feet.
Also reschedule pet outdoor routines to cooler early mornings or late evenings, ensure regular access to shade and clean, fresh, cool water, and monitor pets to watch for heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, or weakness.
