Drought in Hickory, Missouri

No change to the Severe (D2) Drought conditions were noted in November. Farm and stock ponds saw continuing impacts with ground water levels and reservoirs showing limited drought condition improvement. Crop and vegetation growth was showing signs of stress due to limited moisture. Monetary crop losses for 2023 beginning January first will be included in future reports when the drought ends and loses are assessed.

Enough rain fell through the month to keep drought conditions from becoming worse, however, not enough rain occurred to allow for improvements. Severe (D2) Drought conditions lingered across portions southeastern Kansas through the end of November as rainfall amounts from 1 to 3 inches with localized 4 to 5 inch amounts occurred during the month. Across southeastern Kansas, Severe (D2) drought lingered in some areas with Moderate (D1) Drought and Abnormally Dry (D0) conditions areas continuing in others. The primary impacts of the drought occurred in the agricultural communities. Hay growth was impacted along with reports of crop and vegetation impacts due to limited soil and surface moisture, dry stock ponds and low flows on some streams and rivers. Final reports of damages will be placed in the last month the drought occurred in the counties impacted in 2023.