Paducah, KY – Drought conditions are worsening across western Kentucky, with large portions of the region now classified under severe drought (D2), according to the U.S. National Weather Service office in Paducah. The update, released Thursday, shows nearly the entire area in at least moderate drought (D1).
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, severe drought has expanded across multiple counties, with some locations facing impacts on agriculture, water levels, and wildfire risk. Just three months ago, the region had little to no drought recorded.
As of September 9, nearly 87 percent of the Paducah coverage area is in drought conditions, up sharply from just 8 percent three months earlier. More than 18 percent of the region is now in severe drought, compared to zero at the start of summer.
Officials note that worsening drought conditions can stress crops, lower streamflows, and increase fire danger heading into fall. Residents are urged to conserve water where possible and stay alert for local restrictions or burn bans.
The National Weather Service will continue to provide updates as conditions develop. A full drought information statement is available online at weather.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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