An update to the U.S. Drought Monitor now shows an expansion of the severe drought into the northern hills of New Jersey and the development of an extreme drought for Ocean, Burlington and Atlantic counties.

The category of an "extreme drought" has not been issued for New Jersey since the drought of October 2002. The drought in 2002 caused losses of at least 50% or more for corn and soybean farmers in New Jersey, according to the state Office of Emergency Management's report on drought mitigation. This totaled to agricultural losses of approximately $125 million.

About 24% of the state is under a moderate drought, nearly 57% of the state is under a severe drought, and nearly 20% of the state is under an extreme drought.

Impacts of an extreme drought are related to widespread water shortages, which can incur major crop/pasture losses and dry rivers/streams. This dry environment enhances the threat for the spread of wildfires, which is incredibly dangerous when combined with low humidity and strong winds.

It is encouraged to voluntarily conserve water and to ensure that all flames/fires are carefully extinguished if any were to ignite.

The drought is expected to worsen as dry weather continues. There is a light round of measurable rain in the forecast for Sunday night into Monday, but it will not be enough to cure the drought. It will take some time of periodic showers to replenish the water in the environment.