The U.S. & Northwest Dry To Start February

The national drought numbers increased slightly from the end of December to the start of this month, from 42.8% to 44.5%.  Why was the nation so dry during what is for many portions of the country, the wet time of year?

“That is in part due to La Nina, which does rob some of the subtropical moisture that typically overspreads the United States during the winter months, and that has led to enhanced drought coverage in several regions, including much of the southern United States, stretching all the way from the southern Rockies to the middle and southern Atlantic coast,” said USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey.

He pointed out these numbers continue a troubling trend stretching back months.

“Historical drought coverage should hover around 20% for the United States or for anywhere for that matter, and so we been looking at this elevated drought coverage, roughly two times the normal expected drought coverage, going all the way back to mid-September when we saw drought coverage creeping above 40%," Rippey added.  "It has been there every week ever since.”

As far as Northwest numbers are concerned:

• Roughly 25% of Washington does not have a drought designation right now
• Only 2% of Idaho is on par for this time of year
• Oregon is faring the best with 35% of the state free of drought designations 

Currently, some of the worst drought conditions are being reported in Texas, Arkansas, and Florida.

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