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FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. A severe drought now exists in Fairfield County, according to the National Weather Service. The county is expected to see below-normal precipitation levels over the next two weeks.
Meteorologists declared the drought conditions based on the low levels of precipitation, the generally warmer than normal temperatures over the past two months and the number of wildfires that have occurred in the area, said Joey Picca of the National Weather Service. It is difficult to predict how long the drought might last, he said.
During the last two months, precipitation across the area has been 4 to 6 inches below normal. The drought is expected to cause groundwater levels, river and streamflow conditions and soil moisture levels to steadily decrease over the next two weeks.
No water restrictions have been issued, Picca said, but residents should be careful about the threat of fires. Use common sense when it comes to things like outdoor grilling. Dont throw cigarette butts out the window, he said.
The Weather Service has also issued a red flag warning for Tuesday telling people to be on the lookout for fire. Humidity as low as 20 percent and high winds mean that fires are more likely to spread once ignited.
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