Dry July and August 2005

Rainfall totals were well below historical averages across much of north central, northeastern, and east central Minnesota in late-summer 2005. Dry July 2005 conditions experienced throughout Minnesota persisted into August in these areas. The precipitation shortfalls led to low stream flows and increased wildfire danger in many communities.

July plus August 2005 rainfall totals were less than four inches in many northern and east central counties (see map at right), and less than three inches in some areas. Two-month rainfall totals deviated negatively from historical averages by more than three inches in many areas (see map at lower left). Rainfall deficits exceeded five inches in portions of east central and northeastern Minnesota. When compared with other July plus August rainfall totals in the historical database, July plus August 2005 rainfall totals rank among the lowest on record in some locales. (see map at lower right). For those locations depicted on the ranking map as falling below the 5th percentile, only five or fewer of one hundred years in the past recorded less July plus August rain.