The recent weather patterns in the Northern Plains and Corn Belt have brought significant changes to the U.S. Drought Monitor, and Nebraska is among the states affected. As of June 29, the official release date for the updated Drought Monitor, the rainfall data collected over the past week will shape the assessment of drought conditions in the state.
The previous week saw abundant rainfall across the Northern Plains, with areas like the Dakotas, Montana, and Nebraska experiencing above-normal levels. An active front and system from Friday to weekend contributed to this improvement. Some regions recorded excesses of one to three inches, easing drought and dryness concerns and providing a favorable update in the Drought Monitor.
Nebraska's neighboring states, including southeastern Nebraska, eastern Kansas, southern Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois south of I-80, are facing drought conditions due to inadequate rainfall. The recent deficit is expected to worsen the situation, causing further degradation in these areas, according to experts at the National Drought Mitigation Center.
Nebraska's rainfall patterns were variable, with some areas experiencing near-normal or above-normal precipitation. The National Drought Mitigation Center's categorization considers localized effects, but the likelihood of degradation in drought conditions persists due to ongoing drought and areas missing beneficial precipitation.
Nebraska's Drought Monitor update anticipates improvements in areas with recent rainfall, but the state still faces challenges from drought, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and management of water resources.
Photo Credit: science-photo-library-igor-stevanovic
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