Huntsville experienced its driest month of the year in September

September is historically one of the driest months of the year in North Alabama, but this particular September was abnormally dry, as it was for the majority of the state.

Huntsville only experienced 2.70 inches of rainfall for the whole month, lower than the 3.5 inches the area typically averages in September. But Huntsville is not alone.

Drought conditions worsen after dry September

This year has included some of the wettest months in Huntsville’s history.

May was the second rainiest month on record at 11.21 inches, just short of the record set in 1983 at 11.88 inches. As well, the total was more than double the monthly average of 4.67 inches.

June saw 4.41 inches of rain–still well below the 14.99-inch record set in 1989–but above the average of 4.06 inches.

So the fact that North Alabama is on pace right now to record below average rainfall numbers for the year should show just how dry September has been.

Alabama under Fire Danger Advisory

The Alabama Forestry Commission issued a Fire Danger Advisory across all of Alabama this week.

“As this advisory continues and potentially escalates, it is essential to maintain situational awareness. Burning debris piles can continue to smolder for multiple days, eventually spreading out of a previously contained area. Under these critically dry conditions, chances of embers igniting outside of the main burn area are increased.”

Alabama Forestry Commission

The AFC says until the state receives sufficient rainfall to alleviate the severe dry situation, especially in central Alabama, this elevated fire danger will persist for the foreseeable future.

The AFC also said to consider:

• Mitigation measures should be considered to protect lives and property from wildfire damage.
• If possible, refrain from burning until fire danger has diminished.
• Always obtain a permit for prescribed burns, and ensure adequate equipment and personnel are present.
• Never leave a fire until it is safely extinguished.
• In residential areas, be sure to have a water hose prepared and adjacent to the burning area.
• After burning debris piles, it is necessary to thoroughly soak the area until cold.

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