Weather

Local vineyards say they've benefitted from a lack of rain.

The Burnshire Dam in Woodstock has been dealing with some historic issues as the Shenandoah Valley continues to go through a drought. The hydroelectric dam generates power from the Shenandoah River but in the last month, low water levels have raised significant challenges in maintaining its power output.

Hear the Ballew family story from the Mint Spring tornado of 1921. Augusta County, VA

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, were viewable Monday night across the region. Several photographs were captured, included some by local photographer Peter Forister.

Director of Public Works, Jeff Johnston said they expect water levels to drop in the summer and while there is no indication water levels could worsen, if they do the city will keep residents updated.

The late summer weather pattern provided little rainfall to the viewing area. Unfortunately, that same pattern continued into early September. A significant Labor Day heatwave only enhanced problems across the region. With temperatures soaring into the upper 90s to near triple digits for many, and a lack of rain falling during the first week of the month, September has begun just as August had ended; dry and hot. However, extremely beneficial rainfall has provided some aid nearly a week since the Labor Day holiday. The need remains for quite a bit of rainfall, but every drop is a welcomed sight to farmers, recreationalists, and communities throughout the viewing area.

" You will find those in our picnic areas, our campfires, and a couple of our facilities like huts and shelters. Those are the only places fires should be built, in those established fire grates,” said Comer.

Farmers across the Valley are dealing with the consequences as a drought plagues the Shenandoah Valley.

Elkton’s main drinking water source a ground aquifer has not been adequately replenished by rainfall.

The 1st marks the beginning of Meteorological Fall