U.S. Drought Monitor July 21 Report indicates expanding drought
Much needed rainfall has fallen across the state over the past few weeks.
Jackson and surrounding areas in Central Mississippi have recorded 2-4 inches of rain and McComb and surrounding areas in Southern Mississippi, have received 2-3+ inches of rainfall.
But despite the recent rains, the state continues to contend with expanding drought conditions.
According to the latest report, released by the U.S. Drought Monitor, which tracks drought conditions weekly, indicates more than 55% of the state is now in a state of abnormally dry conditons, with portions of Southern Mississippi (23%), now in moderate drought conditions.
The drought conditons are a result of very hot and dry conditions during the month of June and early July.
It was one of the driest months of June on record for Jackson and the driest June ever recorded for McComb.
As noted in earlier reports, Jackson only received .50" of rainfall and McComb only received .04" of rainfall during the entire month of June.
2009 RAINFALL DEFICIT FOR SELECT LOCATIONS IN DROUGHT CONDITIONS
Jackson's rainfall deficit for the year is now over 5 inches; near 3 inch deficit since June 1st.
Meridian's rainfall deficit for the year is now over 8 inches; near 5 inch deficit since June 1st.
Vicksburg's rainfall deficit for the year is now over 8 1/2 inches; near 3 inch deficit since June 1st.
Hattiesburg's rainfall deficit for the year is now 4 1/2 inches; a 4 1/2 inch deficit since June 1st.
Recent rains have helped improve drought conditions across the state, but much more rain is needed as we approach the driest months historically across the state of Mississippi. (August, September and October)
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