(Des Moines) Drought conditions expanded across the state due to below-normal precipitation in May, according to the latest Water Summary Update.
Following a drier-than-normal April, May experienced decreased rainfall across all regions of the state, leading to an increase in drought and abnormally dry conditions. While early rain events initially helped maintain stable dry conditions, lower rainfall amounts later in the month resulted in deteriorating conditions across Iowa.
May’s average statewide precipitation was 2.80 inches, or 2.04 inches below normal. The state experienced slightly warmer weather, with a statewide average temperature of 60.0 degrees, 0.1 degrees above normal.
At the end of May, Iowa’s Drought Plan showed degrading conditions across the state except in the central drought region. However, western Iowa now carries a drought watch designation, with the remaining drought regions remaining under a normal drought designation.
According to the current U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM), more than 80 percent of Iowa remains under abnormally dry or drought conditions.
The June precipitation outlook from the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center indicates an equal chance of above, below, or near-average precipitation across the state, along with an elevated likelihood of above-normal temperatures. Warmer air holds more moisture and could increase concerns for widespread drought if the state experiences below-normal rainfall during June.
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