Despite some locally heavy rainfall earlier this week, dry conditions continue to worsen both in Illinois and Indiana.
The area dubbed as “abnormally dry” by USDA, labeled in the yellow shading, has grown by nearly three times compared to just a week ago across Illinois. A week ago it only encompassed about 9% of Illinois, that area has expanded and now covers nearly 29%. Across Indiana, an area of moderate drought has been added in the last week.
Scattered showers and possible thunderstorms Friday.
FRIDAY SEVERE OUTLOOK
Small chance (level 1 of 5) of seeing a strong or severe thunderstorm.
![](https://wgntv.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/08/SPC-Outlook-Day-2-Words-2.jpg?strip=1)
Beyond the chance for scattered showers Friday, rainfall looks limited if not nil over the next week across the Chicago metro area; torrential rains are expected along the immediate Gulf Coast, including the Houston area.
Total rainfall forecast through September 5th
![](https://wgntv.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/08/IMG_7881.jpg?strip=1)