ST. PAUL, Minn. — Almost the entire state of Minnesota is now in a drought. The U.S. Drought Monitor update says 99% of Minnesota is in at least a Moderate Drought — up from 85% the week before. The only soared area is the far tip of the Arrowhead region, which is categorized as abnormally dry. The Monitor’s categories:

> Severe Drought: 62 % up from 55%.

> Extreme Drought: 19%, up from 16%.

> Exceptional Drought:  1%.

Earlier: Southeast Minnesota drought deepens