Minnesota drought conditions unchanged with little rain in the forecast

Thursday’s U.S. Drought Monitor report shows about 22 percent of Minnesota remains in moderate drought while nearly 75 percent of the state is experiencing abnormally dry conditions:

While there’s little change from last week, the difference is more noticeable compared to two weeks ago, when 46 percent of the state was in moderate drought, with portions of northern Minnesota in a severe drought.

Elevated fire weather conditions

The continued dry weather pattern, and dry vegetation will lead to an increased fire weather threat.

Relative humidity levels are expected to drop into the upper teens and low 20s across much of northern and eastern Minnesota.

The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement due to low relative humidity levels and dry conditions. While winds are lighter and don’t meet red flag warning criteria, fire weather concerns remain elevated.

Here’s the NWS statement:

...ELEVATED FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS TODAY DUE TO LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITIES AND DRY FUELS FOR MINNESOTA... Temperatures warming up near 70 this afternoon will cause minimum RHs to fall into the low 20s and upper teens. Winds will be easterly and around 5 to 10 mph this morning, but will become more southeasterly by this evening with speeds decreasing to under 5 mph. Gusts could reach 15 mph. Any areas with dry grasses or vegetation will be susceptible to elevated fire weather conditions. Check with the MN DNR or your local county before attempting any outdoor burning.

The forecast continues to indicate dry conditions with no appreciable precipitation showing up in current models.