(GDN) — Dry conditions persist across much of North Carolina.  According to this week’s map from the U.S. Drought Monitor, Wayne County is listed in “moderate drought.”  The “moderate drought” conditions are present across much of the state, while a few areas of North Carolina are listed in “severe drought.”  Earlier this week, the N.C. Forest Service issued a statewide ban on all outdoor burning.  The National Weather Service says the next best chance for rain will come next week Wednesday.