Much-needed rain hits, is it enough?
May 28, 2025
Much of Kansas saw a soggy holiday weekend with rain throughout the state for several days. Recent reports show a noted improvement in the drought conditions, however, was the rain enough to bounce back from a years long drought?
The Midwest saw rainfall from 1 to 4 inches according to the National Weather Service. The temperatures across the plains were lower as well allowing the topsoil moisture to receive a much-needed boost. The Hutchinson are saw a recorded 1.43" of rain.
While areas of South Dakota, Nebraska and Colorado drought analysis showed a 1-category improvement, parts of Kansas and Nebraska weren't so fortunate. The latest data small 1-category degradations in drought status.
Cheney Lake elevated more than a foot through the recent rainfall, even so, the reservoir remains very low, sitting at 6' 10" below what is considered normal.
With wheat planted last fall, the moisture may just be too late. The wheat report for the week ending May 25 shows Kansas’ winter wheat headed at 93%, equal to last year. The water will benefit when the wheat ripens, however, the rain will have the greatest impact on for the fall crops like corn, soybeans, and sorghum yet to be planted.
So while the rain was welcome, more is needed.
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