However, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor report released on Thursday, August 6, 2026, most of the state is still in moderate to severe drought, with Brunswick County experiencing the worst drought conditions. Nearly all of Alexander County, with exception of a narrow band across the northern edge of the county, has been eased to Moderate Drought status. “A rainy July brought steady improvements in drought conditions across most of North Carolina,” said Klaus Albertin, chair of the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council and Water Resources Engineer with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources. For counties in exceptional or extreme drought, water systems are advised to follow their Water Shortage Response Plans and adhere to water use reduction measures. Tips for Homeowners• Check your local water system’s conservation status, and follow any conservation measures or restrictions.