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Statewide rainfall was 1.71 inches, 1.48 inches below normal and the
12th-driest September since 1895. Temperatures in Illinois averaged
69.8 degrees, 3.6 degrees above normal and the 15th-warmest
September on record. "While warm, dry conditions rapidly dried
corn and soybeans in the field, much of southern Illinois, south of
Interstate 70, is classified as being in severe drought according to
the U.S. Drought Monitor," Angel said. "Much of central Illinois is
classified as either abnormally dry or in moderate drought. Initial
reports indicate that corn fared better than soybeans in dry areas.
"At least one city water supply has been severely impacted by
drought. The city of Decatur is expecting to enact mandatory water
conservation measures within the next few weeks as the level of Lake
Decatur continues to drop," he said.
"The National Weather Service outlook indicates that the warm
weather will continue over the next two weeks, with only a few
opportunities for rain. That may be more good news for the grain
harvest, but it won't help recharge soil moisture, streams and
lakes," he concluded.
Disclaimer: Data used for all statistics provided herein are from
the Midwestern Regional Climate Center and are based on preliminary
data.
[Text from file received from the
Illinois
State Water Survey]
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