LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Rain and storms on the radar but the drought situation worsens in Arkansas.
The lack of rain continues to be a worrisome topic of conservation. The entire state is experiencing some sort of drought condition, with a majority in the exceptional or extreme category. Ironic to think that three months ago, none of the state had a lack of rain.
Many factors go into examining drought situations. Chris Buonanno, the science and operations officer at Little Rock's NWS office pointed out there are many different aspects when drawing up the drought monitor; precipitation deficit, soil moisture and also stream flows are some to name a few.
Parts of Arkansas have the highest drought classification possible: exceptional. As you'll see in the video, areas with exceptional drought are centered in the middle of the State.
Despite the rain we've had, burn bans are still in place for most of the state and the wildfire danger remains extreme.
Buonanno used the term "flash drought" which is when drought conditions develop very quickly during the warm season.
All in all the wildfire danger looks to remain high. Even if those counties do start lifting burn bans, citizens must stay cautious of burning outdoors. Long range models are still not in agreement, so the forecast of when we'll see drought conditions come to an end remains difficult.