Spring Snow Storm Puts Dent in Drought

(KNSI) — The dumping of snow Minnesota received the last week has helped put a dent in the drought.

The latest figures from the U.S. Drought Monitor show a decrease in the areas marked by severe or extreme drought, which went down by just under 1%. None of the state is experiencing exceptional drought. There was also a marked decrease in overall drought conditions. Moderate to extreme drought areas dropped from 74.74% to 43.37%. Most of Minnesota is experiencing abnormally dry conditions, with the latest figures showing 98.62%. Last week, that was at 99.48%.

Locally, 100% of Benton, Sherburne and Stearns County are experiencing abnormally dry conditions this week. In Benton County, 9.19% is considered in at least a moderate drought. Last week, that was at 100%. Last week, Sherburne County was 100% in a moderate drought last week. This week, that number is down to zero. In Stearns County, 10.01% is in a moderate drought. Last week, that was at 99.92%.

The latest seven-day outlook from the National Weather Service shows chances for rain Friday and Friday night, with the possibility of snow or a rain and snow mix for Sunday, Sunday night, and Monday. The Climate Prediction Center’s 30/60/90-day outlook is calling for equal chances of above- or below-normal seasonal precipitation.

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