Drought Conditions Persist
As Summer 2026 ended, total precipitation from June-August was 5.6 inches below normal in the Twin Cities, leading to the return of drought conditions for the first time since 2024. August 2026 became one of the driest on record, and conditions intensified through the month, with much of the Minnehaha Creek Watershed reaching severe drought by the end of Summer, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Across Minnesota, approximately 94% of the state is currently experiencing dry or drought conditions due to precipitation shortages since 2020, Summer 2026 deficits, and recent heat waves.
Also in this update
- Water levels continue to decline amid drought conditions
- 2026 Precipitation Trends and Forecasts
- Dry conditions intensified through August
- Current Water Levels
- Gray’s Bay Dam Operations
- Water Level Resources