Missouri’s abundant rainfall is gone and the dry spell is back. Gov. Mike Parson has signed an executive order declaring a drought alert in Missouri until March 31, 2025.
Missouri’s last drought alert expired less than two months ago. The new alert comes in response to brutally dry conditions across most of the state this fall, especially in parts of southwestern Missouri that are experiencing extreme drought conditions.
In a news release from Parson’s office, it says the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or parts of at least 88 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The order declares a drought alert in these counties and any additional county that begins experiencing moderate drought conditions.
“While the weather did improve this spring, allowing us to let our previous drought alert expire, the last few months have been dry, forcing us to reissue a drought alert in Missouri,” Parson said. “Despite all our challenges, from droughts to floods and everything in between, Missourians have remained strong. This Executive Order will again allow us to step in and direct resources to those struggling with the consequences of drought, while allowing for vigilant monitoring of conditions over the winter months.”
The order means that the Missouri Department of Natural Resources will reactivate the Drought Assessment Committee to find ways to fight the drought.
Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions here.
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