Those with outdoor plans for this weekend were most likely not delighted with the high possibility of precipitation in the forecast. However, the U.S. Drought Monitor map released Thursday still had much of Pennsylvania listed as in a moderate drought. While last week's rain didn't improve the situation in much of the state, a few regions saw an upgrade. Areas in the northeastern part of the state, the southwestern corner and Cambria County were listed as abnormally dry rather than in moderate drought.
The precipitation that fell last week appeared to have temporarily lifted river levels. However, they have fallen back. The United States Geological Survey's river level gauges on Thursday listed the Allegheny River at Franklin and West Hickory at below normal levels. Oil Creek at Rouseville and French Creek at Utica receded to much below normal.
Specifically, the Allegheny River at Franklin has remained steady at around 3 feet. The reading for Thursday evening was 2.91 feet.
Specifically, the Allegheny River at Franklin has remained steady at around 3 feet. The reading for Thursday evening was 2.91 feet.
June’s rains brought the region closer to normal level of 20.99 inches for this time period. As of June 22, the National Weather Service's data for Franklin was listing a total of 19.04 inches. How much rain will the region receive this weekend? Will it be enough to lift the state out of the moderate drought designation? Only nature knows. That's just the nature of things 'round here.
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