Winter drought envelops much of Virginia

by Jeff Ishee

January 8, 2026 - Farmers in the Commonwealth of Virginia have seen a dry winter so far - very dry in some areas. As of January 6, 2026, the U.S. Drought Monitor reported that 42.29% of Virginia was in severe drought, while 29.48% was in moderate drought. This represents a significant increase in drought conditions since the previous week of December 30. The report that week indicated that only 16% of Virginia was in severe drought.

One week comparison in Virginia. Image credit - US Drought Monitor

Farmers in the Old Dominion are mostly concerned about winter cover crops and small grains. Wheat, barley, and rye depend on adequate soil moisture during the winter months. Livestock producers are also concerned about the lack of forage in winter pastures. Groundwater levels may also become an issue at some point.

Numerous counties in Virginia are enveloped in a severe winter drought, including those counties in the Piedmont Region, the Shenandoah Valley, Northern Virginia, and Southside Virginia.

The long-term drought forecast from the NWS Climate Prediction Center indicates drought conditions in this region may persist at least through the end of March 2026.