CHICAGO - Chicagoland's drought conditions continue to worsen after a week without rain, and hot weather in the days ahead will only add to the stress.
What we know:
The latest Midwest Drought Monitor map shows moderate drought expanding to cover most of the Chicago area, which has seen zero rainfall in the past week.
Nationally, parts of every state in the lower 48 are classified as abnormally dry or in some stage of drought.
Temperatures remain well above normal. Thursday marks the 23rd consecutive day of warmer-than-average highs. Chicago is expected to top out in the mid-80s under mostly sunny skies, with slightly cooler conditions along the lakefront.
Friday will be the hottest day, with highs near 90 degrees, just shy of the record of 91 set in 1954. Both Saturday and Sunday