LITTLE ROCK — Drought conditions are worsening in parts of southeast Arkansas after a long stretch of hot, dry weather.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor released Thursday shows that 5 percent of the state is now in extreme drought. That classification primarily affects Cleveland, Lincoln, Bradley and Drew counties.
Severe drought conditions are in place in other parts of southern Arkansas, while central and western Arkansas are experiencing moderate drought or abnormally dry conditions.
The U.S. Drought Monitor says no drought conditions are in place in 37 percent of the state — primarily northern and northeast Arkansas.
The National Weather Service says showers and thunderstorms are possible Friday, and a cold front is expected to bring cooler air for the weekend.