Severe drought across northern Indiana after 3rd driest October in 127 years
The latest version of the U.S. Drought Monitor released on Thursday, October 31, 2024, showed most of northern Indiana is under severe drought conditions.
Image credit: U.S. Drought Monitor
Almost all (99.87%) of Indiana is experiencing some level of drought (D0-D4), with 68.14% in moderate drought (D1) or higher, and 34.65% in severe drought (D2) or higher — almost all of it in northern Indiana. Comparatively, a year ago, only 63.16% was under drought conditions, with a much smaller portion experiencing severe drought.
Three months ago, on July 30, a much larger area (82.08%) was drought-free. Now, only 0.13% remains free from drought.
A Red Flag Warning was issued for northern Indiana on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, as gusty winds up to 56 – 64 km/h (35 – 40 mph), the temperature near 26 °C (80 °F), and dry conditions made fires in agricultural land become a common event this week.
October 2024 is now officially recorded as the third driest October in 127 years for Fort Wayne. With only 11 mm (0.43 inches) of rain, it marks the driest October since 1964.
Only 42.4 mm (1.67 inches) of rain fell in October at the South Bend International Airport, making it the driest month in 9 years and more than 50 mm (2 inches) below the monthly average total.
The monthly Climate Prediction Center outlook for November predicts above-average temperatures of about 40 to 50% chance and precipitation of about 33 to 50% chance.
Northern Indiana is home to significant agricultural areas, especially for corn and soybeans, which are the state’s primary crops. The region also supports wheat, hay, and livestock farming, which are essential to both the local and national agricultural economy.
Counties like Allen, Dekalb, and Elkhart are particularly known for their large-scale farming operations. Additionally, northern Indiana has a mix of smaller specialty farms producing tomatoes, mint, and melons.
Agriculture here is highly sensitive to drought conditions, as dry weather can reduce crop yields, stress livestock, and affect overall productivity.
The recent increase in drought conditions, as well as record-low rainfall in areas like Fort Wayne, could have substantial impacts on crop health, soil moisture, and farming sustainability in the region.
1 Weather forecast for Northern Indiana – NWS – November 1, 2024
2 Indiana Drought Monitor – DroughtMonitor – October 29, 2024
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