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Drought conditions continue to hold steady in Minnesota as temperatures drop and the state moves closer to frozen-ground season. Any moisture that falls in the coming weeks will be key for soil recharge before the freeze sets in.

The latest weekly update from the National Drought Mitigation Center shows that drought classifications remain largely unchanged across Minnesota.

In the north-central region, counties including Cass, Itasca, Wadena, Hubbard, and Aitkin remain in moderate drought. Meanwhile, Carlton and Pine counties continue to experience severe drought conditions.

With the ground not yet fully frozen, the window for any meaningful recharge is closing.

Soil temperatures above-freezing, for now

Fortunately, soil temperatures remain slightly warm, giving us some time before the ground fully freezes. Below are the seven-day average soil temperatures at 2-inch and 4-inch depths, which remain above freezing for now.

As the seasons shift, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds us to give our trees and shrubs some extra care:

It’s important to give trees and shrubs plenty of moisture before the ground freezes. Moist soil retains more warmth than dry soil, which can help protect roots from freeze damage.

Weather and Climate News

Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Mandy Thalhuber

Author

Drought conditions continue to hold steady in Minnesota as temperatures drop and the state moves closer to frozen-ground season. Any moisture that falls in the coming weeks will be key for soil recharge before the freeze sets in.


7-day average soil temperature at 2 inches

Midwestern Regional Climate Center

NOAA via National Drought Mitigation Center

7-day average soil temperature at 4 inches

Running out of soak time: Drought holds as ground prepares to freeze

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