Chattanooga is experiencing a significant drought with a rainfall deficit of 15 inches for the year, and over 20 inches in Rhea County. However, Tropical Storm Francine is expected to bring some much-needed rain to the region, although it may not fully resolve the drought conditions. The weather forecast indicates potential rainfall and wind gusts as the storm approaches, offering a mix of hope and caution for local residents.
Chattanooga’s residents might have noticed some unsettling news over the past few months. This year, as of 2024, the city is grappling with a staggering rainfall deficit of 15 inches. For those living in Rhea County, the situation is even more intense, with reports indicating a rainfall deficit of more than 20 inches. Unfortunately, the drought has been brewing since November, leaving many areas in a dry spell that has affected not only Rhea County but also half of Bledsoe and pockets of Hamilton, Meigs, and Coffee counties.
Yet, there’s a glimmer of hope coming our way! Tropical Storm Francine is currently brewing in the Gulf of Mexico and is on track to bring some much-needed rain to Tennessee. Rainfall from this storm is expected to kick in on Thursday, which is great news, but it’s important to note that it might not entirely wash away the drought conditions. In fact, while predictions indicate that West and Middle Tennessee could see 3 to 4 inches of rain, it’s crucial to keep expectations in check regarding total drought relief.
Tropical Storm Francine is gaining strength and may actually transform into a hurricane before it makes landfall in Mississippi this Wednesday. Although that sounds a bit alarming, it’s reassuring to know that the dry ground and low river levels currently seen in the region are less likely to lead to widespread flooding, even with substantial rainfall.
As Francine approaches, the National Weather Service has also indicated that wind gusts could reach speeds of 25 to 30 miles per hour, but thankfully, these winds are not expected to reach advisory levels. However, the existing drought conditions haven’t been easy on the surrounding counties. According to the latest assessments, Lewis County finds itself in the grip of a D3 (extreme drought) category, while several other counties like Hickman, Maury, Perry, and Wayne face a similar fate. Fortunately, no counties in Tennessee are rated at D4, which represents exceptional drought conditions, so that’s a small blessing amidst the turmoil.
In Davidson County, the situation is a mixed bag, with some areas classified as D1 (moderate drought), while others are merely abnormally dry.
On a slightly brighter note, East Tennessee seems to be less impacted by drought conditions, but it’s still not out of the woods. Much of the region finds itself experiencing abnormally dry conditions, however, some counties in the northeast are doing just fine and are not facing drought issues at all.
Sadly, since August, drought conditions in Tennessee have worsened considerably. According to recent data on September 3, nearly 88.76% of the state was reported to be in the grip of drought. As frustrating as that may sound, there is growing confidence about a shift in the weather thanks to an approaching tropical disturbance brewing in the Caribbean. Tropical storms are known to impact Tennessee and other parts of the Southeastern U.S., so let’s keep fingers crossed.
Weather models suggest we might see hefty rainfall across the northern Cumberland Plateau region, potentially soaking us with up to half a foot of rain. If the current predictions hold, it might not disrupt weekend events too heavily. For instance, Oneida has suffered a disappointing less than half an inch of rain for September so far, far below the typical average of over three inches, meaning more rain would definitely be a welcome sight!
This weekend may present an unsettled weather pattern that brings a mix of showers and thunderstorms, so don’t put those umbrellas away just yet! So, folks, let’s keep an eye on Francine as it progresses, and hopefully, our prayers for rain will soon be answered! Stay tuned!
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