Portions of Western and Central Illinois are abnormally dry as planting season continues. The U.S. Drought Monitor added the region to its weekly summary Tuesday. All of Peoria county and portions of Tazewell, Marshall, Woodford and McLean counties are included in the report.
Officials say above normal temperatures and below normal surface moisture contributed to the abnormally dry conditions. The distinction is the lowest of the five intensity levels used to measure drought conditions across the country. Temperatures in the tri-county area are expected to reach the mid-to-upper 80s through early next week. The next chance for rain is Saturday.
