By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – More than half the counties in Missouri are now under a drought alert or advisory. That includes the entire western half of the state.
The determinations come from the Drought Assessment Committee, which met today in Jefferson City.
A drier-than-usual September contributed heavily to drought. On average, the state received only half of its normal rainfall of four inches.
In August, 18 counties were under a drought alert and another under a drought advisory.
Now, 31 counties are under a drought alert and another 30 under a drought advisory.
An alert generally indicates moderate drought conditions, based primarily on rainfall levels. An advisory means conditions are not looking favorable.