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Drought conditions improved last week in La Crosse, Monroe, Jackson and Trempealeau counties, though much of north-central Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota remain dry.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor released Thursday, moderate drought and abnormally dry conditions extend across Buffalo, Trempealeau and the northern part of La Crosse counties as well as the Minnesota counties of Wabasha and Winona. Severe drought persists in counties to the north.
Since June 15, 2008, La Crosse is about 6 inches below normal precipitation; Winona’s deficit is more than 7 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
Unfortunately for outdoor enthusiasts, relief might be on the way.
“This weekend will put a dent in it,” said Dave Schmidt, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in La Crosse.
Saturday has an 80 percent chance of rain and a predicted high of 60 degrees. Sunday could see some severe weather. Weekend rainfall totals could reach 1.5 inches, more in some areas.
“It looks like a pretty good dousing overall,” Schmidt said.
Despite the drought, the USDA reported crop conditions as generally good in Minnesota and Wisconsin, where corn planting nearly was complete last week and hay cutting under way.
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