Drought Conditions Persist as Fall Begins

The change over on the calendar from summer to fall has not decreased drought conditions in the Lakes Region.

According to the latest map from the U.S. Drought Monitor, areas of southern Missouri including northern Barry, Stone, and Taney Counties are at an Extreme Drought Level, the next to highest level recording by the Drought Monitor. Areas specifically around Branson and Kimberling City are one level lower at a Severe Level while the rest of the Missouri Lakes Region over Bull Shoals Lake is at a Moderate Drought Level. 

In northern Arkansas, areas of Carroll and Madison Counties are at Extreme to Moderate Levels while all the Harrison area and all of Boone County are showing Moderate Drought Levels. Some areas south of Harrison are showing just drought levels listed as Abnormally Dry. 

While drought levels vary, water levels continue to be low and fire hazards are high. 

Below normal precipitation has fallen in the Lakes Region over the last several weeks though chances of scattered rain are in the forecast for Sunday and again for the middle of next week.