Drought conditions expanded across Iowa in May due to below-normal rainfall, according to the latest Water Summary Update from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The state received an average of 2.80 inches of precipitation last month, about 2 inches below the May average. Despite a wet start to the month, rainfall tapered off, worsening drought conditions across most of the state, particularly in western and southeastern Iowa. Western Iowa has now been placed under a drought watch designation. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, more than 80 percent of Iowa is currently experiencing abnormally dry or drought conditions. Fortunately, timely rains last week knocked the designations in the listening area to abnormally dry or no drought designations. Temperatures averaged 60 degrees statewide in May, just above normal. Forecasts for June indicate equal chances for above, below, or near-normal rainfall, but above-average temperatures could intensify drought concerns if precipitation remains low. 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. The complete May Iowa Water Summary Update is included below.
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