Virginia: Drought warning downgraded for Shenandoah region thanks to Helene
The drought warning for the Shenandoah region of Virginia has been officially lifted after more than 12 inches of rain in a 30-day period.
The drought warning for the Shenandoah region of Virginia has been officially lifted after more than 12 inches of rain in a 30-day period.

Some procedures at UVA Health are being postponed due to a nationwide shortage of IV fluids after a manufacturing plant was damaged by Helene.
Harrisonburg will add three new electric school buses to its fleet. It will own five electric buses after this purchase and has enough space to hold up to 10 in the transportation department’s garage.
Damages from Hurricane Helene to farms in Southwest Virginia are estimated at $125 million, and the total is expected to increase.
The City of Harrisonburg is evaluating the transportation and stormwater needs along Chicago Avenue and Waterman Drive.
The public is asked to avoid natural water bodies in Virginia due to pollution and debris from the remnants of Hurricane Helene.
A donation and resource center has been set up to support residents of southwest Virginia who need assistance due to Hurricane Helene.
More than 120 people are now confirmed dead from flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, including 35, at this writing, in the Asheville, N.C., area.
Virginia’s request for a federal emergency declaration related to damages from Hurricane Helene has been approved, supporting the counties of Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe and the City of Galax.
Mint Springs Valley Park in Albemarle County is closed due to damage to the roadway near the entrance caused by severe weather and flooding associated with Hurricane Helene.
Local news is in “serious jeopardy,” according to experts. Pitch in and help AFP continue to deliver news to the Valley, Virginia and beyond.