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July 15, 2024Des Moines, Iowa |  By: Jeremy Werner

U.S. drought map shows significant improvements across IA

drought

DES MOINES, Iowa - Drought and dry conditions have nearly vanished across Iowa. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows the state in normal conditions, except for a tiny area in eastern Iowa.

This is a significant change from a year ago when the entire state faced drought or dry conditions. State officials credit the improvement to June's average rainfall of 5.22 inches, which is typical for the state's wettest month.

However, rainfall varied, with northwest Iowa receiving much more rain than southern and southeastern regions. Late-June rains caused flooding in northwest Iowa, with Lake Park and Spirit Lake experiencing record rainfalls.

Lake Park saw 18 inches of rain in June, more than half a year's worth. While drought conditions have lifted, officials warn that precipitation generally decreases in late summer.

They advise vigilance, noting that drought can return. Current drought conditions are the lowest in over four years, dropping below moderate drought levels in May.