Drought's Grip Is Wide, Deep

Soaking rains from the remnants of former Hurricane Isaac could help some of the driest parts of the U.S., but the nation's worst drought in decades already has hit everything from hay prices to barge operators and holds the potential to slow economic growth.

Ben Costello says the river-rafting business he manages in Fort Collins, Colo., has done only 45% of the business it usually does in the summertime, as hot, dry weather has sparked wildfires that have kept tourists away. Low water levels in nearby rivers are making it harder to run the longer tours that are the most lucrative for Mr. Costello's business.

"There's not a whole lot we can do," he said, other than cut back hours or lay off workers to try to offset the lost business.