Much of Arkansas has turned hot and dry since late July. After a wet start to summer, rain has nearly stopped for many and heat has soared, drying out the ground in just weeks. Over half of the state is now abnormally dry, with a few areas in a moderate drought.

Farmers are starting to feel the impact. Pastures are browning, some cattle are being fed hay early. Non-irrigated crops like soybeans and cotton are showing stress. Streams and ponds are low, and wildfire danger is climbing as vegetation dries out.

A few counties have been placed under burns bans, including Fulton, Izard, Sharp, Cleburne, Prairie, Arkansas, Desha, Lincoln, Drew, and Ashley.

This drought is not yet as severe as past big years like 2012, but it is spreading quickly. If hot, dry weather continues through August, c

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