Alton, Mo. – Despite recent rains, Oregon County, Missouri, is still in a drought. Although we experienced heavy rains in the spring, the summer and fall months are seeing record-low rainfall. With any measurable seemingly ‘ten days away’, government agencies are announcing that we are on track to set records for the lowest amount of rainfall. Officially, we are in a severe drought.
Numbers
Right now, 100% of the people in Oregon County are affected by the drought. There has been no change in the numbers in the last month, despite a few areas getting some rainfall. August was the fourth driest on record for Oregon County, dating back 131 years. Additionally, for the whole state of Missouri, August was the third driest on record since 1895.
When we watch the weather, we sometimes think that northern Missouri is not experiencing any drought. However, they are drier than usual, receiving more rain than southern Missouri.
While temperatures remain normal for this time os year, the precipitation is to remain unnoticed. Thus, the drought conditions are predicted to persist for another month. Also, although there is dew each morning and the winds are not high, the ground is not soft enough to receive any moisture.
Government
Governor Kehoe has taken note of our dry conditions. He issued an executive order to support farmers and those in need due to the dry conditions.
Waterways
Because Oregon County has natural springs, most of our waterways are not low at this time. NOAA has published its data comparing this month and year with times past.
Fires
Earlier, Oregon County experienced a month-long fire ban. A recent rain canceled it. However, as the dry conditions persist, another burn ban is likely to be implemented.
