Rain Brings Relief to Drought in Lancaster County

Lancaster, PA – Rain is falling in Lancaster County, bringing much-needed relief to a seven-month drought. On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, residents like John Pluta were seen returning grocery carts during a rain shower at Weis Market in Mt. Joy.

Millersville University meteorologist Kyle Elliott noted that this week, many areas could receive between 1 to 3 inches of rain. According to Elliott, the recent upper-level weather patterns, though unexpected, are set to end the drought conditions.

“It’s not what I anticipated, but who can complain about such good news?” Elliott wrote in a recent weather update. The 1 to 3 inches expected through Thursday will help erase the lingering drought, he added.

The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that rainfall on Tuesday could lead to flooding in urban areas and low-lying regions. Although the Susquehanna River recently entered a minor flood stage, it is not expected to reach dangerous levels this week.

Lancaster County has experienced an exceptionally rainy May, with precipitation levels more than doubling the average. By May 13, the percentage of normal rainfall for the month had been surpassed significantly.

“Flooding of small streams is not expected, but caution is advised for motorists regarding standing water,” the NWS stated. Temperatures are projected to remain mild, with highs in the low 80s by Friday.