FRANKFORT, Ky. — Except for regions in the Northeast and Florida, the nation is as dry as a bone, and conditions seem to be getting worse as the summer heat wave continues.

From the Southwest through the Central Plains and into the Southeast, temperatures have been in the 90s and 100s with heat indices over 100. The U.S. Drought Monitor late last week showed most of the lower two-thirds of the United States in dry to drought conditions.

In Kentucky, the majority of the state has seen below-normal precipitation all year, with a mild winter and a warmer-than-normal spring. Last week Gov. Steve Beshear signed an executive order directing the state’s Transportation Cabinet to expedite the transport of emergency supplies to Kentucky counties struggling with drought.

His office reported 75 percent of the 120 counties in Kentucky are classified as being in moderate to severe drought conditions.

“Having responded to a series of weather disasters as governor, I know that quick and decisive action is absolutely critical to recovery efforts,” Beshear said. “Our farmers need all the help they can get to fight the effects of this drought, and we will continue to assist them in whatever way we can.”

The order allows special registration and permit requirements for vehicles carrying relief supplies such as water, livestock forage and hay to stricken areas, to be waived by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).

A release from the Kentucky Governor’s office stated, “Under the order, the response vehicles do not have to pay permit fees for oversized/overweight vehicles.  KYTC will also waive certain size and weight restrictions as they determine to be appropriate to meet the needs of the agricultural community. In order to ensure the safety of the traveling public and its infrastructure, the carrier must obtain all necessary permits for route verification.”

For the second time in two months, officials at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture (UK) have issued a livestock heat stress emergency. “The combination of hot, muggy weather conditions prompts some real concern for humans, as well as livestock and pets,” said Tom Priddy, a UK meteorologist.

“The livestock heat index is a combination of air temperature and humidity. That one-two punch makes it hazardous for people and animals. Dew point temperatures above 65 degrees lead officials to declare conditions dangerous for livestock.”

The recent weather has pushed the Livestock Heat Stress Index into the emergency category. Priddy added the index helps producers know when heat could create a problem for their animals.

Other UK experts are offering advice for producers during the heat wave and drought. Garry Lacefield, a forage extension specialist, recommends livestock owners practice rotational grazing as a way to keep from wasting pastures.

Livestock specialist Jeffrey Bewley said the most important things producers can do are to provide cool, clean water and shade, with buildings as open as possible to help keep animals’ internal body temperatures within normal limits. Sprinkler systems that periodically spray a cool mist on the animals also are beneficial, according to information from UK.

Tennessee is facing some of the same problems with drought as Kentucky. Most of the state is suffering from below-normal precipitation levels. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry released information asking the public to refrain from debris burning and avoid activities that could cause fire until the state receives more rain.

“Most areas of the state are experiencing very hot and dry conditions with low humidity,” State Forester Steven Scott said. “While permits are not currently required for open outdoor burning, as a precaution we’re urging citizens to avoid debris burning until conditions improve.”

The Missouri Department of Agriculture is reminding those needing hay because of dry conditions about the Missouri Hay Directory.

“We are dedicated to connecting Missouri farmers with the resources they need to move forward during this challenging period of dry weather,” said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler.

“We continue to work with producers in every corner of our state to ensure that the Missouri Hay Directory remains an active forum for those buying and selling hay in our state, whether it’s Certified Weed-Free, high-protein alfalfa, organic or any of the many other varieties used by our producers.”

Nearly all of Missouri is suffering from some level of drought, with extreme conditions being reported in the southeastern portion.