The latest U.S. Drought Monitor saw very hot and dry conditions across areas of the western U.S. and the Plains states. In southern Texas, areas of drought expanded where hot and dry conditions have prevailed during the past 30 days. Additionally, NDMC’s flash drought composite map (July 27) showed flash drought conditions developing across areas in the Upper Midwest including Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. Paul Airport (second warmest, +5 °degrees departure); Dubuque, Iowa (second warmest, +5 degrees departure); Eau Claire, Wisconsin (second warmest, +4 degrees departure); and Milwaukee, Wisconsin (fourth warmest, +3 degrees departure). In Wyoming, Rock Springs (third warmest, +4 degrees); and Casper (third warmest, +5 degrees departure.)