At 4.80” for May (+1.24”/135% NOAA normal), most of this total fell in the last week of May. This week’s “Mildly Wet” condition pretty much represents only this last week. The US Drought Monitor still has us in a “D2 - Severe Drought”, down from last week’s “D3 - Extreme Drought”. While the recent rains have certainly helped, we’re still at a long term deficit. Thus we’re probably still at a Moderately Dry or Mildly Dry overall condition. Even with this past week’s generous rains, a lot of roadside ditches are empty (but wet, with some holding a little water), and roadside swamps are wet to holding a small bit of water. So it seems that the ground is absorbing most of the recent rainfall. Only 14 wildfires across the state per the SC Forestry app, so the rain is definitely helping quench a lot of fires. 

  A recent Poinsett State Park hike showed the main pond spillway running full across about an inch deep on one day (after a heavy rain), then noticeably reduced a day or two later. Leaf litter is wet, but the sandy ground underneath is more damp than really wet. Previously dry tributaries are trickling again after recent heavy rains. The bad part is that the wet weather is bringing mosquitos back out, both in the park and at home. Local lawns and fields have really greened up after the rain. The bluebirds at home seem really happy with the extra bugs about, and are not eating as many dried mealworms as before. The birds and squirrels are still visiting the feeders, but have dropped off a bit as the rain has vegetation, trees and shrubs rebounding with the rain. 

  This report may sound a bit confusing, as we’re doing great in the recent past, but still at quite a deficit overall due to the long dry spell. But the rain is really appreciated. 

  From Data Explorer: While we had 4.80” rain in May, overall for the year we’re at 10.91” (-6.48”/63% NOAA normal). Last 30 days: 4.79” (8.31” NOAA normal). Last 90 days: 6.04” (15.01” NOAA normal).