Much of the state remains in drought conditions, according to the most recent report from the U.S. Drought Monitor, but things are looking much better this week than last.

According to the drought monitor, more than 85% of the state is in some level of drought. That’s down from the almost 98% last week.

(Courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor)

The percent in exceptional drought conditions—the most severe level—dropped down to just around 8%, down from more than 12% last week. More than 31% of the state is in either severe, extreme or exceptional drought, compared to more than 64% last week.

(Courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor)

The drought monitor says there are an estimated 6,047,022 people living in drought areas. Ohio's estimated population as of July 1, 2023—according to the U.S. Census Bureau—is 11,785,935.