Drought and Extreme Heat

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Drought ('draut)

Parched landscapeA drought is a period of abnormally dry weather that persists long enough to produce a serious hydrologic imbalance (for example crop damage and water supply shortage) The severity of the drought depends upon the degree of moisture deficiency, the duration, and the size of the affected area.

Extreme Heat

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), extreme temperatures in Minnesota are characterized by issuance of Wind Chill Warnings or Advisories in the winter months, and by the issuance of Excessive Heat Warnings or Heat Advisories in the summer months.

The NWS issues a Heat Advisory for Minnesota when, during a 24-hour period, the Heat Index ranges from 105 to 114 degrees during the day, and remains at or above 80 degrees at night. An Excessive Heat Warning is issued when, during a 24-hour period, the Heat Index reaches 115 degrees or more during the day, and remains at or above 80 degrees at night. An Excessive Heat Watch may precede a Warning.

Preparedness

What to do to prepare for drought and extreme heat

  1. Learn how to recognize and administer first aid for heat-related health emergencies: sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke. 
  2. Practice water conservation measures in your home, business and farm. Encourage local government to adopt similar measures to manage and conserve the water supply. For simple water conservation practices, see the Water Saver web site. 
  3. Review the Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District web site for details on county-wide water conservation and drought mitigation initiatives.

Response

What to do during periods of drought and extreme heat

  1. During a drought, reduce your use of water, particularly for non-essential purposes like washing your car. Adhere to watering bans or restrictions.
  2. Limit your exposure to heat and sun. Wear sunscreen, loose-fitting clothing, hat and sunglasses.
  3. Don't overexert yourself and get sufficient rest. Drink plenty of water to replace water lost through sweating. 
  4. Be mindful of fire and burn bans. In dry conditions, wildfires are easily sparked by cigarettes and campfires.

Recovery

What to do after periods of drought and extreme heat

  1. Continue to practice responsible water conservation.
  2. Farmers who have lost crops can contact the Farm Service Agency for disaster assistance.

For More Information:

U.S. Drought Monitor - Current Conditions

National Weather Service - Heat Waves and Drought

NOAA - Drought Information Center