Iowa is facing growing drought concerns after a winter marked by unusually low rainfall and snowfall. The latest Water Summary Update reports that northwest and southeast regions of the state are now under a drought watch as soil moisture continues to drop.
February was particularly dry, with the statewide average precipitation coming in at just 0.38 inches—nearly eight-tenths of an inch below normal. Some areas in southern and northwestern Iowa received virtually no precipitation, while New Hampton recorded 1.26 inches. Southeastern Iowa saw the driest conditions, with totals ranging from 0.75 to 1.75 inches. Temperatures were also above normal, averaging 31.3 degrees—7.2 degrees higher than usual.
While seasonal streamflows remain within normal levels, soil across much of the state is critically dry. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows most of Iowa is abnormally dry or experiencing drought, with parts of the southeast under severe drought conditions.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts above-average precipitation for March across Iowa, along with higher-than-normal temperatures. While far northwestern Iowa may continue to experience drought through May, the rest of the state is expected to see improvement.
“After a winter of ongoing moisture deficits, drought watches are now in place for northwest and southeastern Iowa,” said Jessica Reese McIntyre, Environmental Specialist with the Iowa DNR. “The lack of precipitation and minimal snowpack have left soils very dry, but conditions are expected to improve for most areas outside the far northwest.”
For more details on Iowa’s water resources and trends, visit Iowa DNR Water Summary Update.
The report is a collaborative effort by technical staff from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering, the U.S. Geological Survey, and Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
