Paducah, Kentucky – Severe drought expanded across southern Illinois and southeast Missouri, increasing regional coverage.
According to the National Weather Service Paducah office, the latest U.S. Drought Monitor update shows D2 (Severe Drought) conditions now covering nearly 25% of the Quad State region. The report is valid as of 7 a.m. EST Tuesday, Feb. 10, and was released Thursday.
The expansion includes additional portions of southern Illinois and southeast Missouri. Moderate drought (D1) and abnormally dry (D0) conditions remain widespread across western Kentucky and surrounding areas.
The Drought Information Statement notes very little measurable precipitation over the past 30 days across the region, with many areas receiving only a few hundredths of an inch. While temperatures averaged below normal during much of January, rainfall deficits have continued to build.
Hydrologic impacts remain limited but notable. According to the report, 14-day streamflows are below the 10th percentile in portions of southeast Missouri and southern Illinois. Some areas of southwest Indiana are also seeing streamflows fall below normal.
Agricultural officials report deteriorating soil moisture across parts of the Mississippi Valley over the past week. However, no major fire hazard or agricultural disaster impacts are currently reported.
A seven-day precipitation outlook included in the statement shows potential rainfall between one-half inch and two inches, with higher totals possible near the Arkansas and Tennessee borders.
Drivers along Interstate 24, Interstate 57, and Interstate 69 may notice dry roadside vegetation and low creek levels in affected counties.
The next Drought Monitor update is expected in one week.
