The latest drought map of Iowa was released yesterday (Thursday) by the U.S. Drought Monitor and shows very little change to dry conditions seen statewide. As of Aug. 10, 3.07 percent of Iowa was classified in extreme to exceptional drought, compared to 4.16 percent on Aug. 1. D2, or severe drought, measured at 24.18 percent on Thursday, down from 26.14 percent last week. The remaining 72.76 percent is listed from moderate drought to abnormally dry, a 3.05-point change from the beginning of the month. Iowans had been hopeful the widespread rainfall seen last week and over the weekend would result in significant improvements to drought conditions, but the record precipitation seen in some areas just was not enough to make up for the months-long below-average rain. Staff at the U.S. Drought Monitor say, “Despite widespread, heavy rainfall (more than 1.5) across western Iowa this past week, improvements were limited given the longer-term drought indicators, and a reassessment can be made in subsequent weeks.” A link with more information is included below.
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