David Sucsy/iStock/Getty Images Overly dry conditions are affecting big portions of the U.S. – how much improvement is possible by planting season? The wintertime drought footprint looks worrisome in many areas, but the silver lining is that no crops are being planted in the central U.S. just yet. Still, the current situation will be important to monitor as winter rolls into spring. Through February 2, data from the U.S. drought monitor showed 64.4% of the country was affected by some level of moisture deficit, ranging from D0 (abnormally dry) to D4 (exceptional drought). That’s slightly below the worst seasonal levels, but the country has consistently been covered by at least 60% since last September.