CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority (RWSA) has lifted the drought watch for Albemarle County and Charlottesville after a notably wet September brought over nine inches of rain to the area.

Following a recommendation from the Rivanna Regional Drought Response Committee, the decision comes as reservoirs and streams have returned to normal levels. A report from the Virginia Drought Monitoring Task Force confirmed that the area no longer meets the criteria for a drought watch.

As of October 2, 2024, local reservoirs have reached 100% of usable capacity, thanks to the significant rainfall received in recent weeks. Although the drought watch has been lifted, authorities are encouraging residents to continue practicing efficient water use to help conserve resources for the future.