The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has issued drought warnings for 22 counties and 13 cities. DEQ also expanded drought watch advisories statewide, leaving just 12 counties and seven cities without any alert. Officials cite ongoing precipitation deficits that have lowered streamflow, groundwater, and soil moisture in many regions. Residents are urged to conserve water and fix leaks, as limited rainfall later this week is unlikely to ease the long-term dry conditions.
