Most of Iowa in a drought watch

Continued precipitation deficits through the autumn months have resulted in a drought watch designation for three of the state’s Drought Regions, according to the latest monthly Water Summary Update released December 4. The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) currently shows that two-thirds of Iowa is abnormally dry, with moderate drought impacting both the eastern and northwestern regions. According to Iowa’s Drought Plan, most of the state saw worsening conditions due to widespread precipitation deficits. November’s statewide precipitation averaged 1.57 inches, which was only 0.25 inches below the monthly normal. However, the state received notable snowfall at the end of the month.