National Weather Service predicts increased drought, fire risk for North Dakota

Is the entire state of South Dakota in a drought?

Yes.As of March 18, 100% of South Dakota is under drought conditions, with 42% of the state under severe or extreme drought.During the same time last year, 11% of the state was experiencing drought with no areas under severe or extreme drought. Each week, federal government drought experts check several variables including precipitation, temperatures, soil moisture, water levels in streams and lakes and snow cover to determine drought conditions…

National Weather Service predicts increased drought, fire risk for North Dakota

FARGO — The National Weather Service has issued its first 2025 spring and summer outlook for North Dakota, and it points to the possibility of increasing drought conditions and fire danger risk across the state. The National Weather Service said during a webinar Tuesday, March 25, that a minimal winter snowpack and upcoming trends toward warmer, drier weather will each play a role. “Regrettably, the expectations are not rosy going forward,” said…

The lack of rainfall in recent months has left its mark on the forests – and with it, a very specific pest risk is increasing.

The spring of 2025 could become historically dry. Weather models contradict each other – but the drought monitor already makes an alarm.

NWS: Dry conditions for foreseeable future - Prairie Pioneer

Firefighters from Pollock, Strasburg and Linton responded to this grass fire about nine miles northeast of Pollock on March 19. The cause of the blaze is unknown. With extremely dry conditions, low humidities and high winds, residents across the region are urged to use extra precautions. Courtesy photo provided by the Pollock Fire Department While Mother Nature is teasing us with a slight chance of showers later this week, it probably won’t be e…