The latest drought map from the U.S. Drought Monitor, published Jan. 24, shows Macon, Graham, Cherokee and Clay counties as the driest in the state, classified as experiencing severe drought. The 11 westernmost counties adjacent are classified as experiencing moderate drought, with 20 more classified as abnormally dry. 

By comparison, the previous week’s drought map showed 35 counties experiencing a drought classified as moderate or greater. Currently, only 15 counties inhabit those classifications. 

Drought maps are updated every Thursday and available at www.ncdrought.org.