State officials are keeping a close eye on dry conditions across Iowa after a winter that delivered far less precipitation than normal.
A new Water Summary Update shows that much of the state experienced below-average moisture levels through February. Iowa recorded just 0.38 inches of precipitation for the month—nearly eight-tenths of an inch below normal. As a result, soil moisture has continued to drop across the state, and large portions of Iowa are now considered abnormally dry or in drought conditions by the U.S. Drought Monitor. Areas in southeast Iowa are currently facing the most serious conditions, with parts of the region classified in severe drought.
Because of those ongoing dry conditions, drought watches have been issued for both northwest and southeast Iowa. Officials say the lack of winter snowfall, along with limited rainfall, has left soils unusually dry heading into the spring season.
Some relief arrived late last week when a storm system moved across much of the state, bringing needed moisture to several areas. Forecasters say additional help may be on the way. Outlooks from the National Weather Service call for above-average precipitation and warmer-than-normal temperatures during March.
According to Jessica Reese McIntyre, an environmental specialist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the dry winter played a major role in the current conditions.
“Following a winter of persistent moisture deficits, drought regions in northwest and southeastern Iowa are now under a drought watch,” McIntyre said. “The lack of both precipitation and a significant snowpack has led to substantial soil drying across the state.”
Seasonal outlooks indicate drought conditions could linger in far northwest Iowa through at least May. However, the rest of the state may see gradual improvement if forecasted precipitation materializes over the coming weeks.
The Water Summary Update is compiled by technical experts from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering at the University of Iowa, and the U.S. Geological Survey, working in collaboration with the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department.
