LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Rain and storms on the radar but the drought situation worsens in Arkansas.

The lack of rain continues to be a worrisome topic of conservation. The entire state is experiencing some sort of drought condition, with a majority in the exceptional or extreme category. Ironic to think that three months ago, none of the state had a lack of rain.

Many factors go into examining drought situations. Chris Buonanno, the science and operations officer at Little Rock's NWS office pointed out there are many different aspects when drawing up the drought monitor; precipitation deficit, soil moisture and also stream flows are some to name a few.

Parts of Arkansas have the highest drought classification possible: exceptional. As you'll see in the video, areas with exceptional drought are centered in the middle of the State.

High pressure continues to keep us sunny and warm for Memorial Day.  Isolated t-storm chance less than 10% with the heating of the day.    Sunscreen, lots of water, and frequent breaks if you're going to be outdoors. 

Relief on the way by mid-week: both rain and cooler temperatures.  Best chance looks like Wednesday night and into Thursday.

Monday:  Mostly sunny & windy.  High 93.

Tonight: Partly Cloudy. Low 71.

 CORPS ISSUES SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY FOR ARKANSAS RIVER

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -  The Army Corps of Engineers has issued a small craft advisory for the Arkansas River in Arkansas because heavy rain has caused flows to rise.  During the high flows, strong currents and large debris can threaten the safety of pleasure craft.

Individuals with livestock and property in lower lying areas along the Arkansas River should continue to monitor conditions and consider moving livestock and property to higher ground.

Flows at Trimble Lock and Dam at Fort Smith were about 100,000 cubic feet per second and climbing.  Flows at Ozark Lock and Dam at Ozark were 80,000 c.f.s. and climbing.

More rain is forecast and could push flows higher or cause the advisory to remain in effect longer.  The National Weather Service updates river stage forecasts twice a day during heavy rain events at www.srh.noaa.gov.