Ind.'s dry spell raises well worries

SEYMOUR, Ind. -- The bone-dry summer across southern Indiana has led to some concerns about low well water levels even though recent rains have ended open burning bans.

The Jackson County Health Department has received calls with questions about changing color, odor and taste of well water. Environmental health specialist Larry Miller tells The Tribune of Seymour that no health troubles have been found so far.

Miller said although the 3 to 5 inches of rainfall in the area last week will help some, much of that water likely drained away. He says it will take above-normal rainfall for some time to return water tables to normal levels.

The National Weather Service this month has classified the state's southern half as in extreme or severe drought.