The latest drought monitor was released this morning and the entire state remains in severe and extreme drought. The percentage of the state under extreme drought has increased from just under 28% to just under 31%. This includes the far northern Siouxland, a large section of central into east central Iowa and the far southeastern counties of the state. Rain chances over the next week look spotty at best and there looks to be no improvement at least through the next two week period. More hot and dry weather is possible with next week in time for the State fair that begins one week from today.