Monday, July 16th, 2007
Photo by Janie Southard/The Daily Standard

How dry is it? Cracks in the ground merit measurement with a ruler. In many places you'll need one longer than 12 inches.

Related online story:
Local weather forecaster Dennis Howick reported the lack of rain this July is now below the amount recorded in July 1988, which was considered the area's worst drought year. [More]
Additional pictures on this date