According to the latest Water Summary Update, Iowa experienced some relief from drought conditions as January’s precipitation surpassed normal levels. Precipitation for the month totaled 1.97 inches, double the average, and the state has seen above-average precipitation in three of the last four months, totaling 7.24 inches since October 2023, representing 106 percent of normal. As of the end of January, Iowa’s Drought Plan indicates improved and stabilized conditions across much of the state, with northwest and north-central regions returning to normal conditions. Areas previously under drought warning in December have seen those designations removed. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Hydrology Resources Coordinator Tim Hall says, “The wet October, December, and now January is a very encouraging trend. In addition, the lack of deeply frozen soil has helped melted snow water to soak into the ground, and as a result, we have seen almost no flooding conditions. We are heading in the right direction to improve conditions as we move into spring.” The report is prepared collaboratively by technical staff from Iowa DNR, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering, and the U.S. Geological Survey. A link to the complete January 2024 Water Summary Update is included below.
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