Drought Monitor shows slight improvement in Midwest

The May 19th drought monitor shows 76.1% of the U.S. is experiencing abnormal dryness or drought, down 0.2% from the previous week, with 62.4% in D1 level drought or higher, up 0.9%.Currently 25% (unchanged) of corn acres are in D1-D4 drought with 27% (unchanged) of soybean acres, and 70% (unchanged) of winter wheat acres also impacted. For livestock, 63% (up 2%) of the U.S.cattle herd is in D1-D4 drought conditions with 33% (up 1%) of dairy cattle also in drought.

Dominant weather patterns produced widespread rainfall across the Midwest, Great Plains, and Gulf Coast regions over the past week. The active systems resulted in localized damage from hail and tornadoes in the Plains states, and some flooding in the deep south with areas receiving up to six inches of rain over the period. Rain was also seen in the mid-south, though totals in Arkansas and Tennessee were relatively low compared to other regions. Moisture was sparse west of the Rocky Mountains. Wildfire concerns remain elevated as summer and warmer temperatures are nearing.

The National Weather Service 7-day forecast expects weather patterns to be active in the coming week once again. Cold fronts along the Plains and Midwest will likely bring rain and potentially thunderstorms. The coastal Southeast will see warmer temperatures and plentiful rain from developing systems as well.

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