IMPACT — A map of Ohio’s drought conditions. A large portion of southeastern and south-central Ohio is currently in an extreme drought condition, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — A new report released by the National Drought Mitigation revealed that large portions of Southeast Ohio are currently experiencing severe drought.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor has portions of 25 Ohio counties, including Jefferson, Harrison, Belmont and Carroll, rated as severe or extreme drought conditions. With minimal or no rainfall being predicted in the short-term weather forecast, drought conditions would be expected to continue or get worse in these regions of the state.

The map uses five classifications: Abnormally dry, showing areas that may be going into or coming out of drought, and four levels of drought: Moderate, severe, extreme and exceptional.

Meetings are currently being planned with USDA and partners to discuss what programs and resources may be available to help farmers. In preparation for these meetings, Brian Baldridge, director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, has asked that local soil and water conservation districts obtain information from their local farmers to gain a greater understanding of what impacts farmers have experienced thus far.

The Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District is collecting responses and feedback from farmers to provide relevant information to ODA and conservation partners, Irene Moore, district administrator, said.

Local farmers can reach out to the district through its website at jeffersonswcd.org or by calling the office at (740) 264-9790.