Heat Brings Back Drought

North Carolina is officially in a drought again. The lack of rain and high temperatures have contributed to moderate drought in seventeen counties, including Mecklenburg and Wake. Thirty-five others are experiencing abnormally dry conditions because there hasn't been enough rain. Sarah Young is the public information officer for the state Division of Water Resources. She says water restrictions matter now more than ever.

Sarah Young: We always say it's a good idea to conserve water, be efficient when using water. We just ask residents to look at their system's water restrictions, if they are imposing any, and to abide by those if they are imposing any.

Young says the high temperatures of the last week have contributed to faster evaporation rates in reservoirs, lakes, and rivers.