MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Drought conditions are worsening across South Dakota, with moderate drought now indicated in parts of the state’s southeast and southwest, according to the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor.

As of the map released Feb. 12 and valid Feb. 10, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows moderate drought (D1) as the most severe category currently present in South Dakota.

The state’s drought summary shows 29% of South Dakota classified as abnormally dry (D0) and 18.6% in moderate drought (D1), with no areas listed in severe drought (D2) or worse.

The U.S. Drought Monitor is updated weekly and tracks drought intensity using categories ranging from abnormally dry (D0) to exceptional drought (D4).