Oklahoma Drought: February Rain, Snow Helping Unshrivel State
12% of the state was in the most severe drought category, D4 (exceptional drought), down from about 42% the week prior
"That's all you can do is sit and wait," McManus said.Drought classifications
D0: Abnormally dry. Area on watch for drought, likely to raise classification soon without rainfall.
D1: Moderate drought. First damages to crops, slowdown in pastures, water shortages start.
D2: Severe drought. Crop and pasture losses accelerate, water shortages and restrictions, burn bans start. Also triggers farm relief programs.
D3: Extreme drought. Long- and short-term precipitation shortage work together for crop and pasture damage and water shortages.
D4: Exceptional drought. Agricultural emergencies, widespread losses, a once-in-50-years drought event.
Source: Gary McManus, associate state climatologist, Oklahoma Climatological Survey
Tulsa precipitation, in inches
(departure from normal)
February 2013 3.18 (1.33)
January 2013 1.54 (-0.12)
December 2012 0.85 (-1.64)
November 2012 1.11 (-1.7)
October 2012 2.75 (-1.18)
September 2012 1.78 (-2.48)
August 2012 3.32 (0.42)
July 2012 1.38 (-1.98)
June 2012 4.29 (-0.43)
May 2012 1.18 (-4.69)
April 2012 3.62 (-0.17)
March 2012 6.24 (2.95)
February 2012 1.61 (-0.24)
Source: National Weather Service
Jerry Wofford 918-581-8310
