Drought Conditions Ease in South Texas

10/28/2009

Source: NOAA's Drought Monitor

According to NOAA's Drought Monitor, substantial changes were in order for depiction of drought across southern Texas as rainfall totals greater than 4.0 inches were recorded across areas previously in severe drought. The area experienced two important rainfall events, with the latter bringing precipitation southward to the U.S.-Mexican border. The core of the extreme drought centered near Uvalde County largely missed out on the rains, with precipitation totaling 1.0-1.5 inches. Also, the coastal portions of the exceptional drought area near Nueces County received more rainfall than the interior, so this area was diminished in size but not removed. In general, a 1-category improvement was made for most of the drought area, except for the two areas mentioned above, and the area from Zapata County to Duval County.


(click to enlarge)

Looking ahead, NOAA says during the next 5 days (Oct. 28-Nov. 1), a storm system is expected to intensify in the center of the country. Upslope conditions could trigger heavy snowfall across Wyoming and Colorado early in the period. As the system develops, heavy rains are expected from the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana to Illinois and eastward to New England. Ahead of a system in the Gulf of Alaska, western Washington is expected to be wet. Outside of those areas, little to no drought relief is expected.