While somewhat frequent rains in 2026 have alleviated drought concerns for the most part, the long-standing drought we’ve been experiencing in the Ozarks persists. In addition, the National Weather Service has stated that our listening area lies in a risk range for rapid onset drought and extreme heat as we move into September.
As of the current data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, drought conditions persist heavily in Arkansas in comparison to Missouri, with the heaviest areas of concern lying in Fulton, Izard, and Sharp Counties.
In Missouri, Howell, Oregon, and Ripley Counties contain the heaviest drought, lying along the southern border.
Increased fire risks will also be present from the period of September 3rd through the 9th as temperatures rise and precipitation chances fall for the time being.
As we go through the next couple of weeks, officials urge residents to have increased caution to ignition sources.
