Recent rainfall has improved drought conditions across much of Iowa, though parts of northwest Iowa remain under a drought watch, according to the latest Water Summary Update from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Statewide precipitation in March totaled 1.97 inches, about 0.02 inches below normal, ranking as the 88th driest March in 154 years of records. Despite near-normal precipitation totals, some areas in southern, eastern, and western Iowa recorded deficits of an inch or more. March temperatures were notably warmer than usual, averaging 42.6 degrees statewide, or 6.2 degrees above normal. Officials say drought conditions have improved in southeastern Iowa, allowing the drought watch there to be lifted. However, northwest Iowa continues to see worsening conditions, advancing to D2 or “severe drought.” The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center expects April to bring above-normal precipitation and warmer-than-average temperatures across the state. However, drought conditions in far northwest Iowa may persist into early summer. The Water Summary Update 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 Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department. A link to the complete March 2026 report is included below.
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