Actually, the gauge located on Oil Creek at Rouseville showed slightly higher levels this year compared to the same period last year. On July 31 of this year, the creek was at 2.9 feet compared to last year's mark of 2.09 feet. It was also interesting to note that on July 29 of this year, the creek crested at 5 feet.
The Allegheny River at Franklin also peaked on July 29 at the 5.1 feet mark, according to the gauges. It too posted levels higher than last year. As of Aug. 3, the river was at 3.4 feet compared to 3 feet last year.
French Creek at Utica’s level of 3.17 feet was better than last year's 1.78 on Aug 3.
However, the year-to-date accumulation of 26.63 inches for this year fell short of the normal precipitation of 28.07 inches.

The declaration came after a July 27 meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force
“While not required, residents and non-farm businesses are encouraged to voluntarily conserve water by reducing their nonessential water use,” said a press release on the issue.
• Northwest: Clarion, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Mercer, Venango, and Warren
• Central: Centre, Clinton, Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Lancaster, Lebanon, Montour, Perry, and Union
• East: Lackawanna, Lehigh, and Wayne.”
The department encouraged residents and businesses to reduce their nonessential water use.
Will we see enough rain to reach a "normal" amount of rain?
Only Mother Nature knows and she's not telling. That's just the nature of things 'round here.