Drought worsens again across the Carolinas

The weekly Drought Monitor update reveals worsening drought conditions across North and South Carolina. As of February 10, 2026, the entire local region is under some form of drought, with categories ranging from 'Moderate' to 'Severe.' Specifically, parts of the Grand Strand are in a moderate drought, while inland areas are experiencing severe drought. Western regions of both states have reached 'Extreme' drought status. Rainfall deficits from 2025 continue to plague the area, with Florence five inches behind and Lumberton four inches behind average. Despite a forecast for soaking rains on Sunday (expected to bring 0.5 to 1 inch), experts say it will not be enough to clear the existing drought status. Additionally, the article notes underwhelming snow totals in the Western US, particularly the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe areas, where snow bases are less than half of the seasonal average, potentially impacting future water supply for those states.