On Air Now Enjoy The Music of KCAX on Branson 4U
Listen Live

Drought Worsens, Expands in Lakes Region

Friday, October 18, 2024 at 9:07 AM

By Scott McCaulley X @smcckc

Photos courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor

As the Lakes Region gets into Fall, the area is seeing the driest conditions of the year continue to grow. 

The latest map from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows areas west of Highway 65 between Branson and Harrison are now at an Extreme Drought Level, which is the next to highest level on the scale. Extreme Level means many area creeks and streams are very low or dry and stress is being shown on trees and other vegetation. 

Other areas of the region, including the Buffalo National River and western sections of Bull Shoals Lake, are at a Severe Drought Level.

The central and eastern sections of Bull Shoals, which did receive rainfall from the remnants of recent hurricanes, are currently at an Abnormally Dry Level. 

The continuing dry conditions also continues to elevate the fire risk in the area. A number of Burn Bans remain in effect and even in areas where bans are not in place, officials are strongly discouraging outdoor burning due to the dry and windy conditions. 

The National Weather Service says rain chances are low though some areas could see a slight chance of rain Monday night into Tuesday. 

Share

More from Local News

  • Local Pantry to Answer Questions about USDA Funding Cuts

    A Lakes Area Food Pantry is hosting a question and answer session Monday about the impact recently announce budget cuts will have.

  • College of the Ozarks hosts Spring 2025 Career Expo

    POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks hosted 124 organizations during the spring Career Expo on April 2, 2025, in The Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex. The Vanek Center for Vocation & Callings hosts this biannual event with the primary goal of providing an atmosphere where students can begin securing internships, employment, or graduate school admissions.

  • Heavy Rain, Severe Weather Update

    Rounds of heavy rain will continue across the Ozarks over the next two days with some areas at a risk for severe weather.

  • Schools Impacted By Storms

    The recent severe storms along with heavy rain on the way has prompted some school districts to close or give students the option to stay home in two Ozark County School Districts.

  • Wednesday Storms, Thursday Rain

    Another line of strong to severe thunderstorms roared through the region on Wednesday. 

Ways To Listen to KCAX Branson 4U

  • Download The App that Fits Your Lifestyle

    Click the links below if you have an Apple or Android phone to download our app. This will let you listen to us no matter where you are. On the lake? No problem, In another country? No problem. If you use Alexa at home, just say "Alexa, Play Branson4u" no matter where you live.

  • Apple store

    Download here if you have an Apple device, including iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
    This will place our app directly on the desktop of your device, making it easy to
    access with just a click. Plus, our app is compatible with Apple CarPlay, so you can
    seamlessly use it in your car too!

  • Google Play

    Download here if you have an Android device, including phone, tablet, or computer.
    This will place our app directly on the home screen of your device, making it easy to
    access with just a tap. Plus, our app is compatible with Android Auto, so you can seamlessly
    use it in your car too!

  • Alexa

    If you use Alexa at home, just say "Alexa, Play Branson4u" no matter where you live.
    Download Alexa here!

Weather on KCAX Branson 4U

Automatic Popup