Parts of state facing increased risk of drought conditions
The combination of dryness and above average temperatures in May increased evaporation and plant water use, which depleted soil moisture. Parts of ...
The combination of dryness and above average temperatures in May increased evaporation and plant water use, which depleted soil moisture. Parts of northeast, western, and central Illinois have been much drier than normal in the past four to six weeks, causing dry soils and lower streamflow. Perennials, gardens, and young trees in these areas have begun to show some response to the dryness, requiring more frequent watering than typical for late May. Forecasts for the next week or two show very dry weather and above normal temperatures, which will likely worsen already dry conditions in the state and potentially induce rapid onset drought conditions in some areas.