Drought worsens in Minnesota; more than 75% of the state experiencing dry conditions
Courtesy: MGN / Bob Nichols / USDA
(ABC 6 News) – Drought conditions have worsened across Minnesota with more than 75% of the state experiencing dry conditions, up from 54% just last week, according to the latest weekly U.S. Drought Monitor.
The release of Thursday’s report shows most of southeastern Minnesota having “abnormally dry” conditions meaning there are some water deficits which are affecting pastures and crops.
Further north into central Minnesota including parts of the Twin Cities metro are experiencing “extreme drought” conditions. Impacts are major crop, pasture losses, and widespread water shortages or restrictions.
The National Weather Service – Twin Cities says September 2022 was the driest September on record in the Twin Cities with just 0.24″ of rainfall for the month. A typical September has an average of 3.04″ of rain. Precipitation records date back to 1871.
It’s official. September 2022 now tops the list of driest Septembers on record in the Twin Cities. #mnwx pic.twitter.com/waYBlUJsto
— NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) October 1, 2022
The Drought Monitor report shows 3.71% of the state is experiencing extreme drought conditions, while last week, none of the state had such conditions. One year ago, 17.58% of the state was in extreme drought conditions.
Meanwhile, another 11.33% is experiencing severe drought conditions, while nearly 35% of the state has moderate drought conditions.
Cooler weather is expected the rest of the week with precipitation chances holding off until possibly mid-next week. For the last ABC 6 Weather First forecast, CLICK HERE.