DES MOINES, Iowa — Continued lack of rainfall has led to a drought watch in three of Iowa's Drought Regions, according to the latest Water Summary Update.

This situation emerged as the state experienced below-average precipitation during the fall, affecting particularly eastern and northwestern Iowa. November saw an average of 1.57 inches of precipitation, slightly below the monthly norm.

However, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says significant snowfall at the month's end resulted in an average of 8.6 inches, making it one of the snowiest Novembers on record. Despite the snow, two-thirds of Iowa remains abnormally dry, with moderate drought in the eastern and northwestern areas.

Jessica Reese McIntyre, an environmental specialist with the Iowa DNR, noted the concern, say

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