The National Drought Monitor released its latest report Thursday, it show a slight improvement in conditions throughout Missouri. Fred Fletcher-Fierro poured over the data and tells us more.
First, the bad news. One year ago nearly 64% of Missouri was no drought classification. Today that figure is just 18.97%. The vast majority of central and north Missouri are considered Abnormally Dry. The southeast and southwestern portions of the state are in the worst condition.
Both areas are experiencing everything from abnormally dry conditions, to severe and extreme drought. 32% of Scott County and it’s nearly 40,000 residents are experiencing Severe drought. While in Barton county in southwest Missouri, about ¼ of that country and its over 12,400 residents continue to deal with severe drought.
In all, the reports estimated that over 2.1 million Missouri this week are living in drought areas. This time last year a half a percent of Missourians resided in areas considered moderately dry. This week, that figured as ballowned to over 40%. For 89 9 KRPS, I’m Fred Fletcher-Fierro
