Tracking widespread drought across Missouri
Beginning in early June, Mid-Missouri along with parts of the Midwest has seen well below average rainfall totals paired with above average temperatures leading to more widespread drought conditions. Earlier today Governor Parson issued a Drought Alert for 53 counties in Missouri in efforts to combat related issues.
An updated drought monitor from early this morning shows a breakdown of areas hardest hit by this drought and the severity. Boone county alone is measuring 36.21% of the area of being in a severe drought. Just over half of Missouri is currently under basic drought conditions while parts of South Central Missouri reaching extreme levels.
Missouri heavily relies on their soybean production along with other crops to contribute large amounts of money towards finances to help stabilize its economy. Areas that have access to proper irrigation and pumps should make it through this period of time decently, but areas that don't have access to water made readily available could see substantial issues.
Throughout the last 30 days almost all of Central Missouri recorded below average rainfall, but some areas are seeing up to 3 inches below average totals.
The reasoning behind drought conditions across much of Missouri occurs in the upper and lower jet streams. High pressure systems to the west currently in place act as a blanket not allowing for incoming low pressure systems to drive cold fronts enabling ingredients needed for showers and storms.
When looking at the lower jet stream, winds remain out of the southwest leading to warmer temperatures across much of the Midwest. These warmer temperature paired with high pressure systems over time lead to below average rainfall totals. When this pattern repeats itself multiple times throughout a month or more, drought conditions are increased.
