Two-thirds of Wisconsin abnormally dry, according to drought monitor

LINCOLN, Neb. (Civic Media) – Two-thirds of Wisconsin is considered abnormally dry, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor.

Last week, less than one percent of the state was considered abnormally dry.

Hot, dry weather has persisted for over a week in Wisconsin, and the forecast calls for continued hot and dry weather to continue, which could lead to worsening drought conditions.

In northwestern Wisconsin, the dry conditions are considered to have short-term impacts to agriculture and grasslands. The designation means that drought impacts will last under six months.

In Wisconsin, topsoil moisture was very short on 45% of land, stressing pastures, crops, and lawns. Some cities in the state have limited outdoor watering due to high water usage for those activities as water levels have dropped in streams and ponds in some places.