Drought conditions have expanded slightly in central and eastern Iowa due to below-normal precipitation in February, according to the latest Water Summary Update from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The state’s preliminary precipitation total for February was 0.42 inches, which is 0.75 inches below normal. Average snowfall was also nearly two inches below normal despite colder-than-usual temperatures. At the end of the month, Iowa’s Drought Plan showed degraded conditions in the northern drought regions, prompting a drought watch designation. In the southern part of the state, conditions remained stable. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports that more than three-quarters of Iowa remains abnormally dry or in drought, with northwest Iowa experiencing severe drought. Fortunately, March has gotten off to a wet start for most of the state, which should alleviate at least some concern about dryness heading into the planting season. The report is prepared by technical staff from Iowa DNR, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering, and the U.S. Geological Survey, in collaboration with the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department. A link to the complete February report is included below.
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