ASHEVILLE, N.C. - The severe drought situation in North Carolina has escalated rapidly, with new data from the U.S. Drought Monitor showing a significant increase in the affected area. As of Thursday, November 2nd, the map released by the monitor revealed that the region experiencing a "severe drought" has now quadrupled compared to the previous week.

According to the updated information, 32% of the state is now facing a severe drought, primarily concentrated in Western North Carolina. This marks a sharp rise from the 7% reported just one week ago. The remaining areas of the state are categorized as being in a moderate drought.

Initially, the severe drought conditions were limited to parts of four counties in Western North Carolina. However, within one week, the situation worsened and now encompasses nine additional counties, including Rutherford, Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Transylvania, Macon, McDowell, and Swain. In the far-western region, Cherokee, Clay, and Graham counties are entirely affected by the severe drought.

Among the newly impacted counties, Rutherford, Polk, Henderson, Transylvania, and Macon are completely engulfed by the drought, while most of Buncombe County is classified as being in a moderate drought. Similarly, Jackson County falls in the moderate drought category.

Henderson County remains under Stage 2A water shortage alert, compelling all of its 80,000 water customers in Hendersonville to reduce their water usage by 20% until the restriction is lifted. The water shortage declaration was made in August, following a voluntary advisory issued earlier in the month.

Local businesses in Hendersonville have expressed their compliance with the water restrictions, implementing measures to conserve water, such as using smaller cups. However, many business owners claimed that they have reached the limit of what they can do in terms of conserving water.

Meanwhile, Tryon has been observing a voluntary water restriction order for its residents for the past month.

In response to the dry and windy conditions, Buncombe County officials have declared a burn ban until Friday, November 3rd. This precautionary measure aims to prevent potential fire hazards.

As the severe drought persists, authorities and residents of Western North Carolina are urged to remain vigilant and adopt further water conservation practices to mitigate the impact of the drought on the region's resources.