Fulton, Izard, and Sharp counties are primarily listed in the D3 category on the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, signifying severe drought conditions. According to the report, this marks the fifteenth consecutive month of drought in the region, with Arkansas experiencing a rainfall deficit of approximately 28 inches compared to normal levels for this time of year.
This prolonged dry spell has impacted much of the state, with an estimated 2.7 million of Arkansas’s 3.1 million residents affected by drought conditions. Meteorological records from the National Weather Service show that July was the 36th driest month on record, based on data dating back to 1895.
As conditions worsen, the Arkansas Forestry Service has issued a burn ban across all 75 counties in the state. Officials are urging residents to comply with restrictions to reduce fire risks during the ongoing dry conditions.