The University of Virginia Climatology Office is a research and service unit of the University of Virginia, in the Department of Environmental Sciences. We serve government, educational, industry, media, and individual clients with information on the impact of weather and climate on economic and ecologic systems.
Click for larger imageCurrent Moisture Status Information
Drought Monitoring Task Force Reports
USGS Current Streamflow Conditions
http://water.usgs.gov/waterwatch/?m=real&r=va
Two observable signs of the water situation are streamflow and ground water status. The USGS (US Geological Survey) monitors both of these through a network of river gauging stations and monitoring wells.
Keep in mind that there is typically an annual cycle of both these parameters—they usually are at their lowest in late fall, rise through the winter and start to fall through the growing season. It’s the difference between the observed value and the average for that time of year that’s important.
http://groundwaterwatch.usgs.gov/StateMaps/VA.html
For streamflow information, click the top map; groundwater information, click the bottom map.
Growing Season & Plant Hardiness
The onset of the growing season varies a great deal across Virginia and from one year to another. The Average Date of Last Frost for some locations is shown below. For more locations, Click Here.
VAHardinessDates.jpg
The varieties of plants suitable for outdoor gardening varies considerably across the Commonwealth. Some useful guidance on plant selection comes from the Plant Hardiness Zone. This is based on the coldest temperature the plant is likely to experience. Below is the current map of these zones. Remember to use great caution in complex terrain!
Click map for larger version.
http://www.deq.state.va.us/waterresources/waterconservation.html
Springtime in Virginia
Leave winter behind! Spring is always a beautiful time in Virginia. Clicking on the image below will guide you to some of the great things to see and do throughout the Commonwealth.
Walk or bike the Virginia Creeper Trail
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Climate Monitoring
Image Courtesy: US National Center for Environmental Prediction
Keep track of the latest in climatic conditions, trends and forecasts.
U.S. Monthly "Climate at a Glance"
Global Monthly Historical Perspective
Southern Oscillation (El Niño/La Niña)
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