The drought continues and our area is severely dry.  We are about one half of the "normal water year" rainfall.  The weather continues very warm with low afternoon humidity.  Nearby communities are beginning to consider water rationing.  There is a state wide ban on all outdoor burning of any kind and any offenders can face stiff penalties. Vegetation appears relatively healthy but the surface duff and soil are very dry. Some regional small reservoirs show signs of rapid drying, hence the rationing discussions.  The next forecast for some rain is late next week.  Our current condition is reminiscent to this observer of the "heat bubbles" we experienced some years ago in California in part caused by a stationary high pressure.