Drought Indices at Work – Monitoring the Formation and Progression of the 2006 Drought

Abstract

On March 26, 2003, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Board approved the Georgia Drought Management Plan (Plan). The hydrological conditions across the State have been such that the Drought Plan has not had a chance to be seriously tested by a severe drought. In 2006, hydrological conditions have been similar to those of the early stages of previous drought. Georgia Environmental Protection Division had monitored the drought indicators identified by the Drought Plan. In June of 2006, EPD Director declared a Level One drought response. This paper presents the first real test of the indicators in the Drought Plan.