Warmer, wetter weather forecast

Temperatures and precipitation were above average in January, according to climatological data released this week by the National Weather Service.

The weather service expects weather that’s wetter and especially warmer than usual to continue through mid-February.

However, prospects are for normal temperatures and below-average precipitation in the second half of the month.

Through April, the weather service says, the area has equal chances of being above or below normal in temperatures and precipitation.

One local anomaly was noted. Stream flow is listed as normal in most of the state but markedly higher than normal in Marion and Chase counties,

Significant wildfire potential is expected statewide this month and next before lessening in April.

Crop conditions were reported to be good with 60% of winter wheat categorized as being in good to excellent condition statewide. Moisture is sufficient with 52% reporting topsoil moisture and 56% reporting subsoil moisture to be adequate.

Drought conditions are not expected to return at least through April, the weather service says. Extreme eastern and southeastern Kansas are the only areas currently abnormally dry or showing moderate drought.