Central NC Farmer Braces for Worst Drought in Decades

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As central North Carolina faces a severe drought with temperatures reaching the 90s, a longtime farmer in the Rolesville and Wake Forest area is preparing for the worst conditions he's seen since the 1970s. Jackie Thompson Sr., who has been farming since 1957, says his pond is dangerously low and he'll have to make tough decisions about which crops to prioritize for irrigation.

Why it matters

The drought in North Carolina is impacting agricultural production and water resources across the state, with over 90% of the region experiencing severe or extreme drought conditions. Farmers like Thompson are on the frontlines of dealing with the consequences, which can include reduced crop yields, insect infestations, and water scarcity issues.

The details

Data shows that central North Carolina is experiencing its driest year on record so far, with Raleigh receiving only about 1 inch of precipitation in January and February compared to the usual 3 inches. Thompson says the 90-degree temperatures will further deplete any remaining moisture in his fields, forcing him to make difficult choices about which crops to prioritize for irrigation from his dwindling pond. He's particularly concerned about his tobacco crop, which he calls the 'moneymaker' for North Carolina farmers.

• Raleigh is experiencing its driest year on record so far in 2026.
• North Carolina did not get more than 1 inch of precipitation in February, compared to the usual 3 inches.
• North Carolina did not get the nearly 3 inches it usually does in January.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Thompson will need to carefully manage his limited water supply to prioritize his most valuable tobacco crop, while also trying to salvage his wheat and soybean yields. The drought's long-term impacts on soil quality and pests will also require close monitoring and potential mitigation strategies.