Fort Wayne, Ind. – Dry skies and rising temperatures are setting the stage for flash drought conditions across Indiana and the Ohio River Valley in the coming days. The National Weather Service warns the region could see a rapid onset of drought as very low soil moisture combines with weeks of below-average rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana office, many areas saw limited precipitation through August and have remained unusually dry to start September. With highs forecast in the upper 80s through this week and the potential for 90-degree heat by next week, the parched conditions could intensify quickly.
The U.S. Hazards Outlook highlights much of the Ohio River Valley, including southern Indiana and Kentucky, as being at risk for flash drought between September 17 and 23. Flash droughts develop faster than typical droughts, driven by prolonged heat and lack of rain. These conditions can stress crops, dry out pastures, and create challenges for both farmers and water management systems.
Residents are urged to conserve water where possible and prepare for worsening dryness if rain continues to hold off. Warnings may be expanded further north if the heat lingers into late September.
