In Washington, rainy days not enough to lift drought status

OLYMPIA, Washington, March 28, 2005: Despite recent rain, Washington is still under drought watch according to a recent report by the Environmental News Service.

Everyone has been advised to watch their water usage but the states’ farmers are expected see among the most drastic effects – even a potential loss of jobs – from the drought. Experts warn the dry conditions could also lead to a particularly active dust storm season in Eastern Washington. The storms common in the dry agricultural areas of the east can wreck particular havoc on the elderly, young and those with respiratory problems. To reduce dust levels, farmers are being asked, when possible, to avoid tilling dry fields.

http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/mar2005/2005-03-28-09.asp#anchor4