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Using the Palmer index, normal conditions fall near zero, while "extreme drought" registers at minus 4 and "extremely moist spell" registers at positive 4.
Other ways of monitoring drought in the Southeast include measuring water flow in rivers and streams. Even when precipitation is normal, water stored in the earth can be low during what is called a hydrologic drought and many rivers, streams, and wells register low flows. Streamflow maps can illustrate the extent of hydrologic drought.
Prolonged periods without rain stress plant communities, making them more susceptible to insects and disease and less competitive with invasive species. Dead and dying vegetation contributes further to the problem of excess dry fuel. Dry conditions also prevent use of prescribed fire, often used control invasive species.
Resources:
 Understanding and Defining Drought
Fire Weather Forecasts
Fire Weather Composite Maps
Day 3-8 Fire Weather Outlooks
National Weather Service Fire Weather Page | 
