We’re in the middle of a massive drought. It’s amazing to me to hear about other parts of the country who have had to struggle through incredible rainfall this summer - all the while sitting through around-100 degree, dry weather here in Nashville.

I notice it in the brown grass (something I got used to growing up in the midwest summers). I notice it in the fact that my back yard looks like it’s fall already - with dead leaves scattered around begging to be raked up or mown under. I can’t even remember the last time it rained, honestly.

The Tennessean this morning staked the Nashville area (and probably half of the state) in “Extreme” drought conditions - “Major crop/pasture losses; widespread water shortages or restrictions.” The forecast for the next five days? The same as the last 5… hot & dry.

• The Tennessean Drought ‘07 Coverage

EDIT: Just watched the lunchtime forecast. Apparently the temperature was 106 degrees yesterday - one degree below Nashville's all-time highest temp. A carnival worker in Lebanon, setting up rides for the county fair died earlier this week after collapsing in the heat. Someone in Memphis died last week in their home - they had no air conditioning and were attempting to stay cool with only a ceiling fan. No sign of relief anytime soon, unfortunately.