Staff Writer

Over the last several weeks, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Williamsport, Mount Pocono, and other parts of northwestern and central Pennsylvania have reported lower than average rainfall. In fact, on average, Mount Pocono receives about three inches of rainfall each year in July, but this year the region has not reached that threshold. In fact, parts of the region are experiencing a moderate drought and more hot weather is expected in the coming week.  

The little precipitation is devastating to farmers across the region as crops begin to be affected by the little irrigation and heat. The USDA estimates that Pennsylvania soils with adequate moisture have declined from 62% to 44% since the beginning of July. Without significant rain, the state is looking at entering a drought which would create even more devastation to farmers and communities across the region.