Despite below normal precipitation in January, drought conditions remain stable across the state, according to the latest Water Summary Update.
January’s preliminary statewide precipitation was 0.32 inches, or 0.65 inches below normal. January is typically the driest month for the state, but increased rainfall during the previous months helped prevent drought conditions from deteriorating.
Total rainfall for November and December was almost 0.51 inches above normal. At the end of January, Iowa’s Drought Plan showed drought conditions remained stable across the state, with all regions carrying a normal drought watch designation.
Statewide temperatures for the month were just over one degree cooler than normal.
Precipitation forecasts from the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center indicate a slight chance of above-average rainfall for the eastern half of the state. If these forecasts hold true, that region of Iowa is likely to maintain normal conditions going into March.