UNDATED – Significant rains and flooding are keeping the eastern parts of the state well saturated, but that’s not the case for much of West River.
According to the most recent U.S. Drought Monitor report, over a quarter of the state is seeing abnormally dry conditions. Over 10% are experiencing a moderate drought.
The Black Hills and upper northwest corner of the state are seeing the worst of the dryness. Here in Meade County, the Sturgis area is listed in D1, or Moderate drought with the rest of the county abnormally dry.
The worst drought conditions west river are in western Pennington County, where severe drought persists.
These dry conditions can cause an increased risk for wildfires, as dry grasses serve as an easy fuel and lighting from rolling summer thunderstorms can create a quick spark.
Fire crews have been busy across the area this week, responding to numerous small fires sparked by both lightning and humans.
