Scientists say soil is unusually dry in Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) - Many parts of Missouri have gone a while since their last big rain. But just how dry is it?

A soil science professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia says the Midwest is going through its driest period since 1988.

Professor Randy Miles says the soil is dry down to nearly five feet, which is the depth where most crops get the moisture they need to thrive.

Miles says the drought actually started last August and was enhanced by a warm winter. High temperatures, low humidity, plenty of wind and a lack of snow last fall and winter caused water to more quickly evaporate from the soil. Now Missouri is in the peak of summer, when the soil can lose up to one-quarter inch of water per day.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.