Weather5280

During the past week we noted the tropical surge of moisture, which was brief
and did bring rainfall, yet there was little benefit as the latest drought
monitor indicates.

The state went from 74% in drought last week's monitor to now 84%. Less than 1%
of the state is considered 'normal.'

Where we benefited from rainfall resulted in a reduction in the area covered in
severe and extreme drought classifications.

Let's do a quick rainfall check for the week, month to date, and for the year to
date.

It becomes quickly apparent that the year, although has had some wet moments, is
drier than average in most cases and the drought monitor continues to indicate a
growing drought.

Is there relief to come?

What we need is our secondary wet season to kick in, but that monsoonal flow
isn't likely to form a benefit for Colorado this year.

As we look at the long-term data, most indicate a drier than average conclusion
for August. 

Generally, the Euro Ensembles have been too wet for Colorado implying a greater
monsoonal flow than what has resulted. If we look at the Euro forecast for
August, there may be some highlights for Colorado - on the plains - but this
forecast is drier than average as the Euro has shifted back to a drier pattern
that makes more sense to us than its previously wet forecast.

The bottom line here, as you've deduced, is the drought will continue to grow.

Drought expands despite latest surge in tropical moisture