Illinois Drought Expands With Severe Conditions Reported in Central and Southern Counties

SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS – Drought conditions are worsening across the state, with central and southern Illinois now facing severe impacts on crops, rivers, and local water supplies.

Severe Drought Across Key Regions

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor, issued Thursday, shows moderate drought spreading across much of Illinois. Areas in and around Champaign, Decatur, Effingham, and Mount Vernon are now reporting severe drought conditions.

Officials warn that with rising temperatures and limited rainfall in the forecast, conditions are likely to worsen in the coming weeks.

Rivers, Streams, and Crops Under Strain

The National Weather Service in Lincoln reports rainfall totals since mid-August have been less than 50% of normal across large portions of the state.

Key waterways including the Sangamon, Kaskaskia, and Vermilion rivers have dropped below seasonal averages, and parts of the Illinois River are approaching record lows.

Farmers are among the hardest hit:

• Soil moisture is rapidly drying, leading to stressed crops.
• Pastures are deteriorating, forcing livestock producers to begin supplemental feeding weeks earlier than normal.

Forecast: Little Relief in Sight

Looking ahead, the seven-day precipitation outlook shows less than half an inch of rainfall for most of Illinois. The chance of measurable rain remains below 20%.

Long-range forecasts into late September point toward warmer-than-normal conditions with continued dryness. The U.S. Climate Prediction Center warns that drought conditions are likely to persist or intensify if current weather patterns hold.

Statewide Concerns

With water levels falling, crop stress rising, and no significant rain in the forecast, communities across Illinois are preparing for continued drought pressures heading deeper into September. Officials caution that conservation and early planning will be critical if conditions do not improve soon.

Have you noticed signs of drought where you live in Illinois? Share your experience and local observations with us at chicagomusicguide.com.