kfundingsland@minotdailynews.com
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This Climate Prediction Center long-range precipitation outlook rates North Dakota as having a 50% probability of below normal precipitation in July, August, and September.
A Drought Briefing issued by the National Weather Service Wednesday cautions that current drought conditions across North Dakota are likely to “persist or worsen” well into the summer months. The NWS adds, “It is always possible we could have a pattern change and transition to a cooler/wetter pattern, but there is no indication of that happening.”
North Dakota has been drying out for several months but, with the growing and planting season getting underway, the lack of soil moisture begins to become more and more evident. Further degradation of soil moisture conditions is of increasing concern, particularly to farmers and ranchers.
Extreme drought conditions expanded in North Dakota this week despite precipitation | News, Sports, Jobs
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National Weather Service says North Dakota drought likely to continue into summer | News, Sports, Jobs
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kfundingsland@minotdailynews.com
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North Dakota is among much of the western United States where drought conditions persist and, says the National Weather Service, conditions are likely to worsen in the months ahead.
No snow cover and daily temperatures flirting with record highs signals a very welcome and early spring for North Dakota. The celebration could be short lived, however.
The National Weather Service on Monday issued their first-ever Drought Briefing, warning that severe drought conditions throughout most of the state are likely to “persist or worsen” through spring and well into the summer. It’s not good news for a state where agriculture is a major contributor to the economy and livelihood of many residents.