Drought conditions continue with about half of Iowa abnormally dry.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor 2.26% is in extreme drought, almost 10% is in severe drought, and 28.25% is in moderate drought. The estimated population in drought areas in the Hawkeye State total over 1,000,000 people. Most of Washington County is abnormally dry with the southwest in moderate drought. Nearly all of Jefferson County is in severe drought and the southwest corner of Keokuk County is in severe drought. Washington County Emergency Management Coordinator Marissa Reisen says there is a heightened risk for wildfires with these dry conditions, also “If it does finally rain, if we get a heavy downpour we could see some serious flash flooding.” She reminds people to never go into flood waters on foot or in a vehicle, as it is unknown what debris is in the water or how deep it may be.