Frigid temperatures this weekend prompt cold weather advisories

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Thursday’s drought conditions report shows the percentage of Minnesota considered abnormally dry decreased. Southeastern Minnesota saw improvement as last week’s rainfall was included in this week’s report. Drought increased in northwestern Minnesota, however.

Drought eases for some, worsens for others

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report shows a decrease in the areas of Minnesota considered “abnormally dry” from 87 percent to 74 percent. 

Areas considered in at least moderate drought decreased just slightly by about one percent of the state. Portions of the state considered to be in at least severe drought increased from 11 to 13 percent of the state, driven mostly by northwestern Minnesota conditions. 

Southeastern Minnesota saw the biggest improvements with those southeast most counties being removed from severe drought and moderate drought shrank significantly. Those areas saw significant rainfall last Tuesday and Tuesday night. 

That moisture was not included in last Thursday’s report since the data cutoff is 7 a.m. on Tuesdays. 

While northwestern and north-central Minnesota saw some rainfall, it was not enough to alleviate drought conditions. This time of year more than three-fourths of an inch of rain is required each week to maintain normal precipitation levels. 

Weather and Climate News

Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Sven Sundgaard

Author

Thursday’s drought conditions report shows that the portion of Minnesota considered abnormally dry decreased, but drought increased in northwestern Minnesota. Southeastern Minnesota saw improvement as last week’s rainfall was included in this week’s report. 

A mixed drought report for Minnesota Thursday

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