West Virginia is currently facing severe drought conditions, with more than half of the state under extreme drought alerts. Senator Shelly Moore Capito emphasized the widespread impact on farmers across the state, urging them to reach out to local farm service agencies for assistance. Local officials are warning residents about the risks of outdoor burning due to dry conditions and the potential for fast-moving forest fires, particularly in southern West Virginia. September has recorded notably low rainfall, with Pittsburgh experiencing its second driest September on record. Drought conditions have led to significantly reduced streamflow rates in area rivers, contributing to concerns about water supply and agricultural viability. Despite some scattered rain, it is insufficient to alleviate the drought, which has been classified as exceptional in parts of West Virginia for the first time since the Drought Monitor began tracking in 2000.