Drought in Vilas, Wisconsin

Drought that developed last summer continued into the new year across Vilas County. During the month, Severe Drought (D2) was confined to areas near the Iron County line, while the remainder of the western half of the county was designated in Moderate Drought (D1). Abnormally Dry (D0) conditions prevailed across the eastern half of the county. For much of the winter, there was very little snow pack due to the unseasonably mild weather and lack of precipitation. The monthly precipitation total at Lac Vieux Desert was 0.47 inches, which was 0.82 inches below normal or 36% of normal. What was more impressive is the monthly snowfall total of 3.8 inches which was 16.1 inches below normal or only 19% of normal. For a location accustomed to a deep snow pack of 1 to 3 feet during January, the maximum daily snow depth reported at the site during the month was only 4 inches. At Eagle River, the monthly precipitation total was 0.42 inches, which was 0.64 inches below normal, or 40% of normal. The monthly snowfall total was only 5.0 inches, which was 9.1 inches below normal or 35% of normal. The maximum daily snow depth reported during the month was only 3 inches.

Drought that developed last summer continued into the new year across north-central and far northeast Wisconsin. The most pronounced drought conditions were noted across the southwest corner of Forest, northern Langlade, Lincoln, much of Oneida, and far western Vilas counties where Severe Drought (D2) was reported. Abnormally Dry (D0) or Moderate Drought (D1) conditions were noted over the remainder of the area.