Apr 25

Midwest Drought Update: Drought Improves Across Midwest

  Key Points   Drought conditions generally improved across the Midwest over the last month, with only 11% of the region in Moderate to Severe Drought (D1-D2) according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Much of the remaining drought is in western portions of the region, with a small pocket of D1-D2 in east-central Michigan.Drought conditions improved in the short term, and in many areas, current impacts at the surface are minimal. However, long-term precipitation deficits remain an issue across Iowa, portions of northern Missouri, and the southern third of Minnesota, with deficits of at least 20 inches over the last four years. Some isolated areas have deficits of over 40 inches.

In Iowa, Missouri, and Minnesota, underlying dryness means these areas will rely on regular spring and summer precipitation to avoid worsening drought conditions. If unseasonably warm and dry conditions develop, the long-term precipitation deficits increase the risk for the rapid expansion and intensification of drought.The seasonal outlooks for May–July 2025 show potential for far western portions of Minnesota and Iowa to receive below-normal precipitation, with equal chances for above-, near-, or below-normal precipitation elsewhere.

As a result of this outlook, drought is expected to persist or redevelop through the end of July across Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri, with potential expansion in far western areas. Potential impacts if drought persists or develops include inadequate moisture for the growing season, elevated risk for wildfire, and hydrological issues, particularly in areas that have longer-term precipitation deficits in Iowa, Missouri, and Minnesota.   For more information about current conditions, impacts, and outlooks for future drought, view the drought status update here.
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