Drought Level Increases in Parts of Lakes Region

Friday, January 9, 2026 at 7:31 AM

By Scott McCaulley @smcckc

The map courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor shows the increased drought level area in northwest Taney along with central and northern Stone Counties.

The latest map from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows parts of the Lakes Region at an increase in drought level.

The map, released prior to Thursday’s rain, indicates that areas north of a Branson and Kimberling City line are now at a Severe Drought Level while the rest of the Lakes Region remains at Moderate Levels.

The areas in severe drought are showing lower water levels in rivers and streams with winter vegetation being stressed.

The current forecast calls for little to any precipitation over the next seven days.

WAYS TO LISTEN

More from Local News

Burn Ban Lifted in Boone County, Remains in Carroll, Madison Counties

Thursday’s rain that moved through the Lakes Region has led to one county’s burn ban to be lifted.
Police Chief Discusses Sunset Clause Removal for Existing Tax

Police Chief Chris Graddy is speaking out about a proposal to remove a sunset clause from a tax that is already in place, saying the clause creates challenges for long-term city services.
Governor Kehoe Announces Approval of More Than $814 Million to Expand Broadband Access

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Governor Mike Kehoe and the Department of Economic Development’s (DED) Office of Broadband Development (OBD) announced Thursday that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved Missouri’s plan to award more than $814 million to bring high-speed internet to more than 200,000 unserved and underserved locations across the state.
Body of Missing Iowa Man Found in Newton County

The body of a man missing from Iowa since mid-December is found in Newton County this week.
Early-Stage Business Boot Camp Begins Next Week

Several organizations are teaming-up to bring back an opportunity to learn about starting one's own business.

Drought Level Increases in Parts of Lakes Region

Share

WAYS TO LISTEN

More from Local News

Ways To Listen