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.
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