Most of Minnesota now drought-free; northwest still dry

Except for a few counties in the northwest, Minnesota is now drought-free, according to the latest drought monitor report. Also, the latest rainfall totals are in from Wednesday’s heavy rain.

Within reach of drought-free

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report shows that 88 percent of the state is now drought-free. Drought conditions linger in Kittson, Roseau and Lake of the Woods counties in Minnesota’s far northwest.

Severe drought has been wiped from the map, while moderate drought covers about 4 percent of the state. Abnormally dry conditions have dropped significantly, from nearly 26 percent to just under 12 percent.

Drought monitor 7-22 — Drought conditions on July 22
National Drought Mitigation Center

Looking back at the past week’s rainfall totals, most of the state received between 2 and 6 inches of rain, while the northwest sections saw less than an inch.

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7-day precipitation totals — Seven-day precipitation totals
Midwestern Regional Climate Center

Wednesday’s soaking

Our latest rainfall from Wednesday is not included in the current drought monitor update, which only reflects data through Tuesday. However, totals from Wednesday’s weather system were impressive.

Humid and steamy conditions led to multiple rounds of rainfall, with some heavier storms moving through the state. Here are some of the latest rainfall totals.

The Northland picked up anywhere between 3-5 inches.