Drought — St. Croix, Virgin Islands

2023-09-01 to 2023-09-30 · St. Croix, Virgin Islands

Event narrative

Farmers are reporting that rain is not penetrating the soil due to evaporation from heat and wind. The U.S.V.I. Department of Agriculture is buying and storing hay and providing water. Poultry farmers also report that they are concerned that guinea grass is sparce and poultry are not eating grain. There is a smaller number of egg production. These reports led the U.S. Drought Monitor to classify the island as Exceptionally Dry (D4).

Wider weather episode

Exceptional Drought conditions are again present across St. Thomas and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, while a Severe Drought affects St. John. Rainfall deficits in the islands are greater than 10 inches. In fact, St. Croix have received less than 50% of the normal amount of rainfall since January 2023. These drought conditions are a big concern for farmers and residents. Soil and vegetation is showing signs of distress. Livestock and poultry have been negatively impacted, with several animals dying from the combination of drought and extreme heat. Farmers have been ordering hay and water in some areas.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1129674. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.