DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Toggle through the graphics above to see how much rain has fallen over parts of central Illinois. Keep in mind, this is just a small sampling, but it does show that we've definitely gotten our fair share of rain and then some in many locales. Â
So, with all this rain, how does the current updated drought monitor say there is a severe to extreme drought? A: The drought monitor runs on a weekly cycle from 7 a.m. Tuesday to 7 a.m. Tuesday. The data is compiled and released on the following Thursday morning. The vast majority of the rain over the past couple of days came after 7 a.m. Tuesday. So, realistically, the drought has improved, but it won't show up on the drought monitor until next Thursday. Â
Next question: Is the drought busted? A: Absolutely not! We desperately needed the rain this week, but it is not enough to end the drought. Lake water levels are up, but more rain is needed. This is a huge step in the right direction. Â
Stay safe and stay weather-aware.
Copyright 2026. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.
