Just How Welcome This Rain Is, Upper Plains Drought Monitor With the exception of Zero-scapers, this latest rainfall is a welcome site. And as far as I'm concerned it can keep raining through the weekend. Now with my garden fully in a good soaking rain once a week will keep my plants in their happy place. Farmers too, as the corn and bean crops need a boost. But when you look at the latest U.S. Drought Monitor parts of the state are not smiling. U.S. Drought Monitor The extreme northwest part of South Dakota is in the D3 level for extreme drought. Ten counties feeling that effect, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.