Finishing off an exceptionally dry and cold January

by | Jan 28, 2025 | 5 Ag Stories, News

Recently, a large arctic air mass has made its way through much of the United States. This is what caused the subzero temperatures in Iowa, and it’s also what brought snow down to the Southeast. Justin Glisan, state climatologist for Iowa, said that, fortunately, this blast of air didn’t stick around as long as last year’s.

Luckily, the temperatures have warmed up considerably already. Glisan said this rubber band effect usually happens following these types of weather events.

Glisan said that this January was also the second driest on record for the state.

That lack of moisture means that it will be more difficult for any future precipitation to soak into the soil before the ground thaws significantly.

For more information, visit iowaagriculture.gov/climatology-bureau.