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North Carolina Slips Into Drought

Closeup of dry soil.
Darren Hester

Parts of North Carolina have slipped into drought for the first time in two years. The state Department of Environment and Natural Resources says the drought extends from the Triad to Charlotte and points west.

Jamie Kritzer is a spokesman for DENR.

"People need to pay close attention to what's happening in their areas and follow any water restrictions that are being put in place in those local areas," Kritzer says.

"Of course, it's always a good idea for people to conserve water when possible, whether it means not leaving the water running when brushing your teeth, or taking shorter showers, for instance."

Kritzer says the Triangle is abnormally dry, but could see heavy rain in the coming weeks. Drought could continue in western parts of the state through the summer.

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Rebecca Martinez produces podcasts at WUNC. She’s been at the station since 2013, when she produced Morning Edition and reported for newscasts and radio features. Rebecca also serves on WUNC’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) Committee.
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