Kansas is overall about 9 inches behind normal. Kansas is divided into 9 regions. Precipitation to end the drought varies from 2 inches in southwest Kansas to around 8 inches in the northeast and the east central. While the dust bowl 1930's were the driest years in Kansas, there were few gauges to measure stream flow. July of 1954 was the driest with over 50 % of the state much below normal in stream flow. July of 2012 had over 90% of the state in much below normal for stream flow. Right now, the drought outlook for all of Kansas is predicted to last at least through April.
All of the reservoirs that provide municipal and industrial water supply combined are at 71% of conservation pool. John Redmond got as low as 40% while Tuttle and Cheney were at 55%. New record low stream and river flows were recorded at 9 United States Geological Survey gages, and 34 tied previous records. 60 had no flow at some point in 2012.
It is expected that the Ogallala aquifer is down 5 feet and that will be measured at the end of January. The Kansas Water Office is moving ahead to develop a plan to dredge John Redmond reservoir. John Redmond holds back-up water for the Wolfcreek Nuclear Power Plant. There will be several bills dealing with water rights and conservation plans.
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Contested races in Tuesday Primary Election in Nebraska
LATEST STORIES
Tuition increase by KU, others in state
KS grad requirements updated after two decades.
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Potts first to file for Sheriff's seat in Atchison Co
Senator Slama won't endorse candidate in legislative race
Local author brings "Broken and Chained" to Falls City Saturday