How Hot Is It?

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Farmers throughout Missouri affected by the heat and drought that has gripped the state will now have access to low-interest loans and other assistance from the federal government. U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack declared all 114 counties as primary natural disaster areas, following a request by the governor.

USDA on Tuesday announced the designation of 97 additional counties, in addition to the 17 counties previously announced.  Because it is contiguous toSt. LouisCounty, the City of St. Louis also is included in the designation.

“This designation can help livestock and crop farmers across the state who are suffering great losses because of the heat and lack of rain,” said Gov. Jay Nixon, who is surveying damage at farms in Lewis, Atchison and Polk counties on Tuesday.

It's getting dire in many places, but I can speak firsthand for this pocket of Missouri.  Crops are browning or dying, and no relief in sight.  Several days of hard rain would be great, but still not enough to replenish the water levels.  Livestock will be feeling this for a long time to come, even if the rain came now.

The rivers and lakes are low enough that entire stretches are dried up.  The Sac (pronounced "Sock" for you non-locals) is dusty and stops completely for as far as one can see in places.  I've only seen it this bad once before, and it took years to recover.