STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Drought conditions have expanded to southwestern Barren County. The affected area extends from where the Louie B. Nunn Parkway crosses the county line to the Fountain Run area.
” … Moderate (D1) to extreme (D3) drought was expanded in portions of central and eastern Kentucky, where rainfall amounts were below normal,” the U.S. Drought Monitor website posted.
That lack of precipitation led to the website elevating the drought conditions from moderate to extreme this week for that area of Barren County, and all of Warren and Allen counties. The rest of Barren County is listed as being under a severe drought.
The extreme drought area of the county includes all of Barren River Lake.
The US Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District posted a caution for those who plan to boat or do other activities. The caution was posted before the extreme drought conditions were declared.
“Barren River Lake is currently experiencing lower-than-normal water levels due to ongoing spring drought conditions and below-average rainfall throughout the region,” the Corps stated. “While visitors may notice lower water levels than typical for this time of year, Barren River Lake remains open and ready for recreation.”
“Barren River Lake is currently discharging at the minimum required discharge rate in accordance with the approved water control plan during spring fill,” the Corps stated. “Current conditions are the result of regional drought impacts and limited spring rainfall.”
Boaters should be aware of shallow areas and submerged hazards, the Corps stated.
