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Jan. 12, 2025Omaha, Neb. |  By: Jeremy Werner

Drought conditions persist around MO River

missouri river

OMAHA, Neb. - The Missouri River Basin enters 2025 grappling with persistent drought conditions, much like the previous year.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects below-average runoff into the reservoir system, with runoff above Sioux City forecast at 20.2 million acre-feet—just 79% of the average.

Officials say dry soil, minimal snowpack, and a significant precipitation deficit are fueling the problem. Nearly 90 percent of the basin is experiencing drought or abnormal dryness.

Areas like the Dakotas, Montana, and Wyoming lack snow depth crucial for replenishing the basin.

Corps officials increased releases from the Gavins Point Dam in late December to stabilize ice cover but plan to return to normal winter release rates this week.