According to the latest Water Summary Update, above-average rainfall in November has improved drought conditions across Iowa. Preliminary statewide precipitation for November measured 3.25 inches, which is 1.43 inches above normal. This followed a dry September and October, which together recorded nearly 3.5 inches below average rainfall. The late-season rain helped prevent worsening drought conditions and removed Iowa’s drought watch designation under the state’s Drought Plan. Statewide temperatures in November averaged four degrees warmer than usual. While most of Iowa remains in abnormally dry or drought conditions, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows a significant reduction in severe drought areas, now limited to a small section of northwest Iowa. Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Environmental Specialist Jessica Reese McIntyre says, “The state’s average rainfall for the fall months was below normal, but National Weather Service outlooks are stable. Continued normal or above normal rain in December is critical as we head into the winter months.” The report is prepared monthly by technical staff from Iowa DNR, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering, and the U.S. Geological Survey, in collaboration with the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department. A link to the full November report is included with this story on our website.
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