How current precipitation effects this coming planting season

Light showers made their way through Mid-Missouri throughout the afternoon and evening hours. Although most people won't think much of the importance of these lighter rain bands, it is actually important towards recovery of drought seen throughout much of the region.

Current drought monitor conditions shows improvements across the southeastern portions of Mid-Missouri.

The Missouri River plays an important role in feeding smaller creeks and streams in which farmers can draw water for irrigation during drier periods of times. Current river levels remain very low, but stronger snow pacts upstream could lead to an increase in levels this spring when temperatures rise and the snow melts.

The three-month precipitation outlook looks to remain near average, which is a good sign. Above average trends would most likely be needed to accomplish the elimination of the current drought conditions over this period of time.