South Carolina Drought

D0 — Abnormally Dry

• ▸Brush fires increase
• ▸Row crop growth is stunted, irrigation begins early

D1 — Moderate Drought

• ▸Fire risk increases; tree pests increase
• ▸Peach size is reduced; non-irrigated corn shows severe stress
• ▸Voluntary conservation of water and energy is requested
• ▸Water use is high; creeks, streams, and lakes are low

D2 — Severe Drought

• ▸Boating recreation is compromised
• ▸Cattle are lighter; producers are selling calves early and feeding cattle earlier
• ▸Fisheries are impacted; duck hunting areas close
• ▸Number of fires increases, and fires are more intense
• ▸River and lake levels are low; saltwater intrusion occurs; hydroelectric power production is reduced

D3 — Extreme Drought

• ▸Burn bans begin
• ▸Hay is scarce and expensive; owners are giving away horses
• ▸Mandatory water restrictions are implemented, violators are fined; lake outflow is low
• ▸Small aquatic species are stressed
• ▸Soil moisture is low, winter crops are slow to germinate

D4 — Exceptional Drought

• ▸Daily life is compromised
• ▸Producers are hauling water for cattle; auctions see record number of cattle
• ▸Trees are stressed; fish are dying
• ▸Wells are contaminated or running dry; lakes are extremely low with hazards exposed