The east coast may still be flooded with more water than they know what to do with, but the south is still experiencing record-breaking temperatures in the triple digits, extending the drought considerably longer than expected. Experts claim this severe dry spell could go on well into next year, intensifying throughout Alabama and Georgia in particular.
The drought is inching toward the east, with Hurricane Irene rainfall offering a bit of relief, however devastating, to some eastern states at risk of getting hit with the drought.
Texas has experienced the worst hit, with 2011 the driest calendar year since the 19th century when weather records began. 95.04% of the state is at a level of extreme and exceptional drought, according to the Drought Monitor.
Lack of rainfall has dried the soil right up, killing crops and leaving livestock with little to nothing in the ground to eat or drink. Wildfires have engulfed thousands of acres, leaving more than $5 billion worth of damages.
Oklahoma also experienced extreme and exceptional drought over 85.37% of the land. Wheat farmers have questioned whether or not to bother planting new crops for the coming autumn season, since the majority of soil is lacking necessary moisture needed by the plants. No wonder Monsanto is about to take advantage by launching genetically modified, drought-resistant corn.
In Louisiana, extreme and exceptional drought has reached 59.50% of the state.
The drought continues to escalate with each day that reaches temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Texas has recorded more than 80 days of 100+ degree weather, and Wichita, Kansas has recorded 50. As of last Thursday, temperatures were still reaching more than 100 degrees throughout the Plains.