Drought Increases But Rain on the Way

The weekly report from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows an increase in dry levels, especially in northern Arkansas.

Areas including around Harrison in Boone County as well as all or most of Marion and Searcy Counties are at an Extreme Drought Level, meaning extremely low water levels and stress on all vegetation. That impacts northeast Newton County as well while the rest of Newton and most of Carroll County remain at a Severe Level.

The majority of the Missouri Lakes Region including the Branson area are at a Severe Drought Level while areas of southeast Taney County and northwest Ozark County are moderate after recent rainfall. 

The best chance of rain in several weeks is approaching the Lakes Region as a wet pattern is expected to begin on Sunday and continue through next week. Prior to that, extremely warm temperatures, low humidity, and high wind has led area officials to advise against outdoor burning today and Saturday with some areas issuing burn bans due to the conditions.