Despite stormy weather this week and last, our region is losing ground to drought. Except for a few spots where heavy rain has fallen, overall precipitation is below average and generally not able to keep up with evaporation.
The driest areas are across central and western North Dakota. Here in the Red River Valley, there has been just enough rain so far and it has generally come when we needed it. In fact, the Grand Forks and Grafton areas are actually too wet.
But with another hot week expected next week, the situation will likely get worse. Much of the week is expected to bring temperatures near and above 90 degrees.
Although the air will feel humid and dew points will be high some days, evaporation will be high with ample sunshine and afternoon relative humidity values below 50 per cent. Expect lawns and crops to look at least a little stressed.
