Drought Conditions Worsen Across Iowa

All of Washington County now in moderate drought, over 60% of state experiencing abnormal dryness

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Drought conditions have significantly worsened across Iowa in the past week, with 11.4% of the state now in moderate drought and 62.4% experiencing abnormally dry conditions. All of Washington County, as well as Keokuk, Jefferson, and Henry Counties, are now classified as being in moderate drought.

Why it matters

The increasing drought conditions pose a serious threat to Iowa's agricultural industry, which is a major driver of the state's economy. Prolonged drought can lead to reduced crop yields, livestock stress, and strain on water resources, potentially causing significant economic hardship for farmers and communities.

The details

According to the latest data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, the percentage of Iowa in moderate drought has increased from just 1% a week ago to 11.4% currently. Additionally, 62.4% of the state is now experiencing abnormally dry conditions, up from 86% at this time last year. The counties of Washington, Keokuk, Jefferson, and Henry are all now classified as being in moderate drought.

  • As of February 22, 2026, 11.4% of Iowa is in moderate drought.
  • One week ago, only 1% of Iowa was in moderate drought.
  • At this time last year, nearly 86% of Iowa was abnormally dry, 61.4% was in moderate drought, and 1.3% was in severe drought.

The players

U.S. Drought Monitor

A partnership between the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration that produces weekly maps of drought conditions across the United States.

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The takeaway

The worsening drought conditions in Iowa underscore the need for proactive measures to support the state's agricultural sector and prepare for the potential impacts on the local economy. Farmers and policymakers will need to closely monitor the situation and implement strategies to mitigate the effects of the drought.