Chicago, Ill. – A prolonged dry stretch from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast is raising concerns for worsening drought as rainfall remains below normal through at least Sunday, September 21. Temperatures will run warmer than average across much of the region, adding stress to crops, lawns, and reservoirs already running low.
According to the Climate Prediction Center, areas from Michigan south through Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana are expected to see well-below-average precipitation over the next 8 to 14 days. The same outlook calls for above-normal temperatures for much of the Midwest, while the Gulf Coast stays closer to seasonal highs.
Major cities including Chicago, Indianapolis, Nashville, and New Orleans will experience dry conditions, with daytime highs climbing into the mid-80s to near 90 by late week. The lack of rainfall could impact agriculture and increase wildfire risk in dry grasslands, particularly across Indiana, Kentucky, and northern Mississippi.
Residents are encouraged to limit non-essential water use and prepare for extended dry weather. Local officials warn that the pattern may extend beyond September 21 if current trends persist.
