Despite some rain showers hitting dry areas throughout the state this week, drought continued to worsen throughout most of the region and Iowa.

According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, almost all of Marion County is now under severe drought (D2), and nearby counties are now in extreme drought (D3) conditions. Most of Lucas, southern Warren, and central Wapello Counties have experienced prolonged dryness over the past two to four months that warranted degradation to that category, according to the report.

The National Weather Service forecast has isolated thunderstorms possible late Friday and Monday–however, widespread, drought-busting rainfall is not expected over the next 10 days. Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS and visit kniakrls.com for the latest drought information.