Minnesota Drought Eases Slightly with Overnight Rain

Drought now covers 99 percent of Minnesota, with only pockets of the state experiencing significant rainfall. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report shows an increase in all categories of drought except for "exceptional drought." Southwestern and west-central Minnesota have moved from "abnormally dry" to "moderate drought," while conditions in northeastern Minnesota have improved. Rochester and the Twin Cities have significant rainfall deficits since June 1. Some rain is expected late Thursday into Friday, but most areas will see less than a quarter inch of rainfall.