Which counties in Upstate South Carolina are in severe drought?

Anderson, Pickens, and Greenville counties in Upstate South Carolina are currently experiencing severe drought conditions.

What are the impacts of severe drought on the Keowee-Toxaway basin?

The Keowee-Toxaway basin is in Stage 1 drought, with low rainfall leading to requests for water conservation and limited irrigation withdrawals.

Has Lake Hartwell's water level been affected by the drought?

Yes, Lake Hartwell's pool elevation has dropped significantly, triggering drought level responses from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Home / Weather / Upstate Drought Worsens: Severe Water Restrictions Loom

Upstate Drought Worsens: Severe Water Restrictions Loom

10 Jan

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Summary

Anderson, Pickens, and Greenville counties now face severe drought.
Water conservation measures implemented for Keowee-Toxaway basin.
Lake Hartwell's water levels have dropped significantly.

Upstate Drought Worsens: Severe Water Restrictions Loom

Drought conditions intensified across the Upstate at the start of 2026, pushing Anderson, Pickens, and Greenville counties into severe drought status. These areas, along with others experiencing moderate drought, face potential water shortages and elevated fire risks. The South Carolina State Climate Office reports that over 40% of the state is currently in moderate drought, with another significant portion abnormally dry.

The Keowee-Toxaway river basin has entered Stage 1 drought, with rainfall significantly below seasonal averages. The drought management group has requested voluntary water conservation, urging users, particularly those on Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee, to limit irrigation withdrawals. This basin is a tributary to the larger Savannah River Basin.

Meanwhile, Lake Hartwell has experienced a significant drop in its pool elevation, prompting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to implement first-level drought measures. These adjustments reduce hydropower generation but aim to conserve water within the reservoir. Inflows to Lake Hartwell have been well below normal since September, indicating the persistence of these dry conditions.