Half of county got twice normal rain
Staff writer
A much wetter than usual August washed away any lingering traces of drought in Marion County, with half of the county receiving as much as eight inches of rain.
Rainfall for the month was heaviest in the southeastern half of the county, south and east of a line generally from Goessel to Lincolnville.
According to National Weather Service data released Monday, that area received a minimum of five inches during the month, and many portions received up to eight inches.
That was as much as four inches above normal — or double normal rainfall — for the region.
As much as 15 inches were recorded just across the county line in the Wonsevu area, according to the weather service.
The southwestern corner of Chase County was among the wettest areas in the state.
The northwestern half of Marion County received two to four inches during August, an amount generally regarded as normal.
Additional rain is expected countywide in the next seven days, according to the weather service. Half an inch to an inch is expected.
Temperatures last month were somewhat below normal, with among the fewest 100-degree days in nearly a decade.
Temperatures are expected to remain near normal through September, but above normal precipitation is expected.
The trend is expected to reverse after September, however. Through November, temperatures are expected to be above normal and precipitation below normal.
Latest crop estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture list corn as 59% good or excellent, range and pastures at 61% good or excellent, sorghum at 63% good or excellent, and soybeans at 66% good or excellent.