Drought in Hart, Georgia

After an extended period of abnormally dry weather during much of 2016, in which record low annual rainfall amounts were observed (deficits of around 20 inches), northeast Georgia finally saw a month of near-to-above normal precipitation during January 2017. This resulted in slight relief from the drought conditions. Nevertheless, levels remained well below normal on all area streams and reservoirs were several feet below target elevations. All communities continued to observe at least voluntary water restrictions, while mandatory restrictions continued in a few mountain and foothills communities.