Cincinnati, Ohio – Another week of sunshine and dry skies is deepening drought conditions across the Ohio Valley, with officials warning of worsening fire danger from Ohio into Kentucky and Indiana. The National Weather Service in Wilmington said the lack of measurable rainfall through the workweek will allow already dry soils and vegetation to become more vulnerable.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, areas of southern and central Ohio, eastern Indiana, and northern Kentucky are showing signs of expanding drought stress. Counties including Franklin, Hamilton, Boone, and Dearborn are all highlighted for increased fire risk. Officials urge residents to use caution with open flames and to comply with local burn bans that may be in effect.
Warm afternoons, plenty of sunshine, and very low humidity will dominate, leaving little chance for meaningful rainfall to break the pattern. Outdoor burning and brush clearing could quickly spark fires that spread in the dry air. Emergency managers recommend avoiding unnecessary burns and keeping water sources nearby if outdoor equipment is used.
The dry streak is expected to linger into next weekend, with no significant rainfall signals on the horizon. Additional advisories could be issued if drought conditions continue to expand.
