Dry conditions during late July led to worsening drought conditions across much of Iowa, prompting state officials to expand drought monitoring efforts, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ latest Water Summary Update.
A drought watch remains in effect for northwestern Iowa, while a new drought watch has been issued for southwestern Iowa after moderate drought conditions expanded across those regions during July. Central and northeastern Iowa fared better, receiving above-normal rainfall that helped maintain stable conditions.
Despite statewide rainfall averaging 4.50 inches in July, about 0.33 inches above normal, precipitation was highly uneven. Some central and northeastern communities received two to three times their typical monthly rainfall, while northern and western Iowa experienced significant rainfall deficits. As a result, soil moisture declined across much of the state, although streamflow levels generally remained within normal ranges.
July also brought warmer-than-average temperatures, with the statewide average reaching 76.5 degrees, or 3.1 degrees above normal, making it approximately the 25th warmest July in Iowa’s 154 years of weather records.
According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, nearly 45% of Iowa is experiencing abnormally dry conditions, while nearly 30% of the state is now classified in moderate drought.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts a greater likelihood of above-normal temperatures across Iowa in August, while precipitation has equal chances of being above, below, or near normal. Seasonal outlooks through October suggest drought conditions in western and northwestern Iowa are likely to persist and may expand across the northwestern portion of the state.
“July brought sharp contrasts in precipitation across Iowa, with heavy rain in central and northeastern Iowa while northern and western regions continued to remain dry,” said Jessica Reese McIntyre, an environmental specialist with the Iowa DNR. “As the state transitions into its drier season, forecasts favor drought persistence rather than relief.”
Residents can review the complete Iowa Water Summary Update on the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.
Source: Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Water Summary Update – https://www.iowadnr.gov/watersummaryupdate
