Drought Status in Pennsylvania

Precipitation has been variable this spring, with greater rainfall in the west and north of the state than in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania. (See figure below) This is leading to deficits in groundwater levels and low stream flow in that part of the state. Knowing your soil type and its available water supply will help you determine sensible management strategies.

As of last week (April 6, 2026), 8 counties were in a drought warning and 39 in a drought watch (see the Northeast Regional Climate Center's drought page). With limited rainfall in the immediate forecast in the southeast, water-saving strategies are in order prior to corn and soybean planting.

One strategy is to terminate cover crops now to avoid them from depleting moisture stored in the soil profile. This is more urgent on soils with low moisture storage capacity, such as a shaly soils, stony soils, or those with fragipans. Another strategy is to conserve crop residue cover. The residue helps reduce soil water evaporation and increases water infiltration by protecting the soil surface from raindrop impact.