Rain is offering much-needed relief across drought-affected areas of Indiana, with additional showers expected throughout the week. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Indianapolis, scattered showers will increase in frequency this evening, with the heaviest rainfall predicted through Tuesday morning. Most areas are expected to receive between half an inch to an inch of rain during this period.

The NWS in Paducah, Kentucky, reports that the current precipitation is due to a slow-moving cold front. Following a brief decrease in rain chances midweek, more widespread showers are anticipated Thursday into Friday as another weather system moves through the region.

The rain couldn’t come at a better time, as much of Indiana is experiencing drought conditions. The latest report from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows that most of the state is classified under a moderate drought, while the lower tip of Southwest Indiana, along the Ohio River, is in severe drought.

As the rain continues, residents are encouraged to remain cautious of potential flooding in low-lying areas, even as the precipitation helps alleviate dry conditions across the state.