Have You Noticed How Dry It’s Getting in Southeast Minnesota?

Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) -  After an early wet spring in southeast Minnesota, it may be hard to believe the region needs a good drenching.

The National Weather Service says the moisture deficit in the region since March 1st has grown to 2 - 3 inches in many areas.

The NWS is describing much of the region as “abnormally dry” as a result of the lack of moisture. Parts or all of Fillmore, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, and Winona counties are included in the advisory. 

The agency says while the region has received 3.5 - 5 inches of precipitation since March 1st, the totals are below average. The Preston area has one of the highest deficits at 4 inches. The total in the Elgin area is 3 inches below average.

Rochester’s precipitation total since March 1st is nearly 5 inches but that’s almost 2 inches below average. Rochester has only received about half an inch of moisture this month and just over an inch since Easter.

The dry conditions may ease somewhat after this weekend.  Forecasts for the region call for 1 - 2  inches of rain between Saturday afternoon and Sunday night.