Severe Drought persists in southeast Minnesota
Pastor Dale Morgan
Severe Drought persists in southeast Minnesota*
By Chris Hubbuch | Lee Newspapers
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According to the U.S. Drought Monitor released Thursday, moderate
drought and abnormally dry conditions extend across Buffalo, Trempealeau
and the northern part of La Crosse counties as well as the Minnesota
counties of Wabasha and Winona. Severe drought persists in counties to
the north.
Since June 15, 2008, Winona’s precipitation deficit is more than 7
inches; La Crosse is about 6 inches below normal, according to the
National Weather Service.
Unfortunately for outdoor enthusiasts, relief might be on the way.
“This weekend will put a dent in it,” said Dave Schmidt, meteorologist
with the National Weather Service office in La Crosse.
Saturday has an 80 percent chance of rain and a predicted high of 60
degrees. Sunday could see some severe weather. Weekend rainfall totals
could reach 1.5 inches, more in some areas.
“It looks like a pretty good dousing overall,” Schmidt said.
Despite the drought, the USDA reported crop conditions as generally good
in Minnesota and Wisconsin, where corn planting nearly was complete last
week and hay cutting under way.
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