CHARLOTTE (AP) — A forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says drought is likely to develop in central North Carolina through September.

The Charlotte Observer reports the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group reports the Catawba River basin, including Charlotte, is in the lowest stage of drought. The current dry weather and warm temperatures prompted the classification.

Rainfall in Charlotte is 3.4 inches below normal for the year.

Two of three drought indicators — water stored in the 11 reservoirs on the Catawba and streamflows into the lakes — have dropped..

Separately, North Carolina’s Drought Management Advisory Council says the part of the state traversed by the Catawba is in moderate drought. That is the second-lowest of five stages the council sets.