Drought in Vilas, Wisconsin

At the beginning of the month, Severe Drought (D2) encompassed all of Vilas County. Well below normal precipitation totals were observed through the 22nd. A winter storm brought copious amounts of precipitation (rain/snow) from the 24th through the 26th, with amounts of 1.00 to 2.50 inches. On the March 26th Drought Monitor, Severe Drought (D2) was confined to the northwest quarter of the county with Moderate Drought (D1) over the remainder of the county. At Eagle River, the precipitation total for the month was 2.41 inches which was 0.80 inches above normal, or 150% of normal. The snowfall total was 11.7 inches which was 1.7 inches above normal, or 117% of normal. At Lac Vieux Desert, the precipitation total for the month was 2.14 inches, which was 0.30 inches above normal, or 116% of normal. The snowfall total was 12.0 inches, which was 5.2 inches below normal or 64% of normal.

Drought that developed last summer continued through the winter into early spring across Vilas County. At the beginning of the month, Severe Drought (D2) encompassed the entire county. A winter storm brought copious amounts of rain and snow from the 24th to the 26th, allowing for some improvement in drought conditions. On the 26th, the Drought Monitor indicated Severe Drought (D2) was confined to the northwest quarter of the county with Moderate Drought (D1) over the remainder of the county.