Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Latest drought report shows concerns for northwestern Minnesota

Drought conditions worsen for parts of the state

Current drought monitor 4/24
Minnesota drought conditions as of April 22
NOAA via National Drought Mitigation Center

The latest United States Drought Monitor report shows growing concern for northwestern Minnesota, where precipitation has been scarce over the past month. An active weather pattern has funneled most of the recent rainfall into the eastern and southern half of the state.

Rainfall misses northwestern Minnesota

They say April showers bring May flowers, and if that’s true, eastern and southern Minnesota might be in for an abundance of blooms after all the rain they've soaked up over the past month.

Southwestern Minnesota, in particular, has received over 4 to 5 inches of rain, while northwestern counties have seen less than 1 inch. Quite the difference in rainfall across the state!

30-day precipitation total
30-day precipitation total
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, via WeatherBELL Analytics

The latest drought monitor report highlights a growing concern for northwestern Minnesota, which has now moved into the moderate drought category. Levels have grown from just over 41 percent last week to over 46 percent.

Current drought monitor 4/24
Drought conditions in Minnesota as of Tuesday
National Drought Mitigation Center

On the other hand, areas in southwestern Minnesota are currently free from any drought concerns compared to last week.

Minnesota drought weekly comparison
Minnesota drought conditions this week and last week
National Drought Mitigation Center

Our active weather pattern will persist through early next week, with several systems bringing widespread precipitation. By the time the next drought monitor is issued, statewide rainfall could total another inch.

Forecast rainfall through May 1st at 7 a.m.
Forecast rainfall through May 1 at 7 a.m.
NOAA, via Pivotal Weather