Drought conditions have increased in Iowa, especially in southeast Iowa according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Currently 44.2% of the state is abnormally dry with 11.7% in moderate drought, up from last week with 26.86% abnormally dry and none of the state categorized as in moderate drought. Counties completely or partially in moderate drought include Washington, Louisa, Henry, Jefferson and Des Moines. At this time last year, less than half a percent of Iowa was abnormally dry.

The most recent data available was gathered through Tuesday, before rains fell across the eastern portion of the state.