Drought deepens to ‘severe’ levels in Minnesota
Some breaking news across the Weather Lab wires this morning.
Drought reached a new level for a big chunk of Minnesota today.
Today's U.S. Drought Monitor update now paints 31.9 percent of Minnesota in the more serious "severe drought" (D2) category. That's up from 0 percent last week.
As of this week's update, more than 92 percent of Minnesota is classified in drought, with most of eastern and southern Minnesota including the Twin Cities metro area still in the moderate drought (D1) category.
Last week was dry again across much of Minnesota. Less than a quarter-inch fell up north, with areas in northeast Minnesota getting light to no rainfall.
Anywhere from 3 to 6 inches of rainfall is needed to end drought in northern Minnesota in the next two months.
Light showers may slide through Minnesota Friday morning. More significant rains could fall Sunday evening. The best chance for meaningful, soaking rains is next Wednesday and Thursday.
Stay tuned.
Your support matters.
You make MPR News possible. Individual donations are behind the clarity in coverage from our reporters across the state, stories that connect us, and conversations that provide perspectives. Help ensure MPR remains a resource that brings Minnesotans together.