INDIANAPOLIS — A new drought report is in, and parts of northern Indiana are now back in a severe drought. Most of central Indiana is abnormally dry and will likely not see any improvement as rain chances are very limited in the extended forecast.
So far this month:
It's been a relatively dry October so far with only one day of measurable rainfall in the Indy metro picking up 0.07 inches. Even the wettest part of the state has only recorded 0.15 inches (Muncie).
How our precipitation so far compares to prior years in Indianapolis:
Month-to-date: Tie for ninth driest (0.07 inches)
Season-to-date (Sept. 1 - Oct. 17): 12th driest (1.59 inches)
Rainfall deficit in the past 30 days across the state:
North-central Indiana is still in the peak of the rainfall deficit with locations like Lafayette to Kokomo reporting a nearly 0.50 inches deficit. Those areas are now in a moderate drought. The worst of the drought conditions are in northeastern Indiana, including the city of Fort Wayne.
Are there any rain chances in the forecast that could make up our deficit?
Not in the near-term. Rainfall opportunities look relatively limited through the next seven days. The best chance will come along a weak boundary Tuesday evening, but even then, showers will be light and limited. A secondary boundary brings gusty winds on Wednesday, followed by a brief cooldown with highs in the upper 50s next Thursday.
