Portions of central and western Illinois remain dry as drought conditions persist across the Midwest. The U.S. Drought Monitor says Kentucky is the only Midwest state with normal soil conditions.
Dry conditions are widespread across Illinois. The Drought Monitor listed all of Peoria and adjacent counties as abnormally dry in late spring. Conditions are improved, although parts of Tazewell, Woodford, and McLean counties are still abnormally dry.
The Drought Monitor uses a six-level scale to measure conditions. It ranges from normal to level D-4, which is the most severe drought level.
Sections of Hancock and Adams counties along the Mississippi River are in severe drought. Moderate drought conditions persist in adjacent counties including Rock Island, Mercer, Henderson, Warren and McDonough.
Missouri is especially hard-hit. Some parts of the state are so dry that crops are suffering and hay for cattle is in short supply.
