Drought risk in Tennessee

Drought characteristics in Tennessee

Tennessee experiences drought as a recurring natural hazard, though its frequency and severity vary across the state. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, drought conditions can emerge in any season, but they often intensify during summer and fall when rainfall is below normal and temperatures are high. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) includes drought in its hazard mitigation planning, recognizing that prolonged dry spells can affect water supplies, agriculture, and communities.

Tennessee's geography ranges from the Mississippi River lowlands in the west to the Cumberland Plateau and the Appalachian Mountains in the east. This diversity means drought impacts can differ regionally. For example, West Tennessee's agricultural areas may experience crop stress and reduced soil moisture, while Middle Tennessee's growing urban areas can face increased water demand. East Tennessee's mountainous terrain may see streams and reservoirs drop, affecting both aquatic ecosystems and water utilities. No part of the state is immune to drought, but areas that rely on surface water reservoirs or shallow wells may be more vulnerable during extended dry periods.

The U.S. Drought Monitor classifies drought intensity from D0 (abnormally dry) to D4 (exceptional drought). Even moderate drought (D1) can lead to voluntary water conservation measures, while severe drought (D2) often triggers mandatory restrictions. Drought is a slow-onset hazard, meaning it can develop over weeks or months and persist for long periods, sometimes spanning multiple years.

How it affects homes

Drought can affect Tennessee homes in several ways, some of which may not be immediately obvious. The most common impacts include:

• Foundation problems: As soil dries and shrinks, it can shift and crack foundations, walls, and driveways. This is especially common in areas with clay-rich soils, which expand when wet and contract when dry.
• Water supply issues: Homes that rely on private wells may see water levels drop, leading to reduced water pressure or dry wells. Public water systems may also impose restrictions, affecting outdoor watering and other uses.
• Landscape damage: Lawns, gardens, and trees can suffer from drought stress, leading to costly replacement or reduced property value.
• Increased wildfire risk: Drought dries out vegetation, making wildfires more likely and more intense. Homes near wooded areas or wildland-urban interfaces face higher risk.

From an insurance perspective, standard homeowners policies typically do not cover drought-related damage such as foundation cracks or landscape loss, because these are considered maintenance issues or earth movement. However, if a drought-fueled wildfire damages your home, fire coverage may apply. It's important to review your policy and discuss with your agent what is and isn't covered. Flood insurance, which is separate from homeowners insurance, is not relevant to drought.

How to prepare your home

Preparing for drought involves both long-term resilience and short-term water conservation. Here are practical steps you can take:

1. Improve soil and landscaping: Add organic matter to soil to improve water retention. Use mulch around plants to reduce evaporation. Consider replacing thirsty lawns with drought-tolerant native plants.
2. Install water-efficient fixtures: Look for EPA WaterSense labeled toilets, showerheads, and faucets. These use less water without sacrificing performance.
3. Fix leaks promptly: A dripping faucet or running toilet can waste thousands of gallons per year. Check for leaks regularly and repair them quickly.
4. Harvest rainwater: Rain barrels and cisterns can capture roof runoff for garden use. Check local regulations before installing.
5. Protect your foundation: Consult a professional about managing soil moisture around your foundation. In some cases, targeted watering during extreme drought may help prevent shrinkage, but always follow local water restrictions.
6. Maintain your well: If you have a private well, have it inspected and consider a backup water storage tank. Know the depth and yield of your well.
7. Review your insurance: Understand what your policy covers and consider whether additional coverage, such as for wildfire, is needed.
8. Create a water conservation plan: Identify ways to reduce water use indoors and outdoors. Keep a supply of bottled water for emergencies.
9. Stay informed: Monitor the U.S. Drought Monitor and Drought.gov for current conditions and forecasts. Follow guidance from TEMA and local water authorities.

Frequently asked questions

Does homeowners insurance cover drought damage in Tennessee?

Generally, no. Standard homeowners insurance policies exclude damage caused by drought, such as foundation cracks from soil shrinkage or dead landscaping, because it is considered a maintenance issue or earth movement. However, if a drought-related wildfire damages your home, the fire portion of your policy may provide coverage. Always review your policy and speak with your insurance agent to understand your specific coverage.

Which areas of Tennessee are most at risk for drought?

Drought can affect any part of Tennessee, but some areas may be more vulnerable. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor and Drought.gov, drought impacts are often felt in agricultural regions of West Tennessee, where soil moisture is critical for crops. Middle Tennessee's growing communities may face water supply challenges during prolonged dry spells. East Tennessee's mountainous terrain can experience reduced streamflow and reservoir levels. Regardless of location, all homeowners should be prepared for drought conditions.

How can I conserve water during a drought in Tennessee?

Start with easy indoor fixes: fix leaks, install EPA WaterSense labeled fixtures, run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads, and take shorter showers. Outdoors, water lawns and gardens early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation, use mulch, and consider replacing non-native plants with drought-tolerant species. Follow any water restrictions issued by your local utility or the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. Every drop counts during a drought.

Official resources

• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA)
• U.S. Drought Monitor
• Drought.gov
• EPA WaterSense