A stretch of dry conditions throughout the fall season has drought worsening again locally. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor Report, extreme drought — the third highest on the national scale, is once again in place in portions of southern Marion and Warren Counties. The latest update has one-third of Marion County at that rating, and most of Lucas and all of Monroe Counties are also now in those conditions. The rest of the region is primarily in severe drought, with the northeastern part of Marion County rated at moderate. No major relief is in sight, according to the National Weather Service, with the next best chance for rain returning Monday; however, little-to-no significant precipitation is expected with that system.