Drought conditions across North Arkansas are intensifying as the region endures a prolonged heatwave, officials say. According to Fulton County Soil Conservationist Cory Tyler, Fulton County is currently classified between D-0 and D-1 levels on the U.S. Drought Monitor, indicating moderate drought conditions.
Nearby counties, however, are facing even more severe situations. Izard, Sharp, Lawrence, and Randolph Counties have reached D-2 on the Drought Monitor, a designation for severe drought.
Temperatures across the region are forecast to remain around 100 degrees through at least next week, further exacerbating already dry conditions. Officials urge residents and agricultural producers to prepare for worsening impacts as the heat and lack of rainfall persist.