"Extreme" drought conditions in Western North Dakota return

(Bismarck, ND) -- Drought conditions are prevalent throughout much of western North Dakota.

The latest drought monitor show the northwestern corner of the state, Divide, Williams and Mckenzie counties, have large portions of land under "Extreme" drought conditions. 21% of counties in western North Dakota are under "Severe" drought conditions. Overall, just over half of state is under some level of drought , ranging from extreme to abnormally dry. 

The drought rankings partially come from a lack of groundwater in some counties, a factor used in the drought monitor. 

You can look at up-to-date information about droughts in North Dakota by clicking here.