Photo: U.S. Drought Monitor
(Undated) -- Dry conditions are expanding in Iowa and Illinois. This week's U-S Drought Monitor Map shows nearly all of Iowa in moderate drought. Parts of northeast and western Iowa are in severe drought. The northern two-thirds of Illinois are either abnormally dry or in moderate drought. There are also areas of severe drought in northwest and northeast Illinois. Southern Illinois (south of Effingham/Interstate 70) is the only portion of the state that is free of drought.
The National Weather Service-Quad Cities is predicting showers and storms this evening and through the night, with the chance for some strong to severe storms. Widespread soaking rainfall is also expected.
Large hail will be the main hazard, with severe timing generally between 7pm-Midnight tonight.
The NWS says heavy rainfall will accompany the storms tonight, bringing much needed rain to the area. Areas along and south of I-80 have the best chance to see upwards to an inch or more, with amounts tapering off north of the interstate.