Thanks to recent rainfall, the severity of dry conditions statewide is decreasing.
The latest drought monitor shows around 25% of the state under drought conditions. Just three weeks ago, around 75% of the state was impacted.
Laura Edwards, the South Dakota State Climatologist, said recent weather changes are good news for crops.
“I think the rain in addition to the cooler than average temperatures we’ve seen over the last couple weeks, you know for most of July, really has improved or reduced the stress on especially corn and soybeans,” Edwards said. “And so, we’re seeing much improved crop conditions in the corn and soybean areas.”
Edwards says next week could bring above average temperatures, but she hopes the rain will be enough to keep crop conditions stable.