OTTUMWA —
For the first time in months, the U.S. Drought Monitor says Iowa's conditions have improved.
This week's drought report, released Thursday and including the week prior to August 14, shows a decrease in the area under extreme drought conditions. Southeast Iowa had been entirely included in that category.
Now, a band that includes most of Marion, Mahaska and Keokuk counties, as well as the northern halves of Monroe, Wapello and Jefferson counties, has fallen back into the severe drought category. The rain that fell is still generally below normal levels, but was enough for some improvement.
Overall, 62 percent of the state remains in the extreme drought category. The remaining portions of Iowa are all in the severe drought category.
And it is far too early to say the drought is in retreat. Most of the surrounding states, particularly to the south and west, saw conditions worsen in the past week.
The good news is rain has fallen in many areas this week as well. Ottumwa recorded 0.61 inches of rain in the early morning hours Thursday.
CNHI/Southeast Iowa
Related Photos
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Iowa drought map
Discussion
Drought conditions see slight improvement
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