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In NW Kansas, Fear of Worsening Drought Conditions

www.kansas.com

A dry late summer in Northwest Kansas has raised concerns about a potential return to drought conditions. The latest US Drought Monitor listed the region’s drought status as “moderate,” reports Prairie Farmer.

Much of Kansas has seen enough rain to rescue wheat yields and nourish fall crops. But the stubborn northwest region has seen diminished yields of corn and soybeans. And some analysts are beginning to have concerns about next year’s winter wheat crop. 

Forecasters have predicted a wetter than normal winter in the Southern Plains. Even so, the area in Kansas labeled as “abnormally dry” has doubled over the past three months. On the bright side, the “abnormally dry zone” only covers about a fifth of the state. At this time last year, almost half the state was abnormally dry. So, despite concerns, conditions have improved.