The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. (Map courtesy of NDMC.)

Extremes in weather felt across US

A sharp contrast in the air masses causes severe weather—thunderstorms and tornadoes. The contrast can be in temperature or in the amount of moisture, particularly if there is a dry line of air behind the storm system, said K-State climatologist Mary Knapp. (Courtesy photo taken near Manhattan, Kansas, by Dan Donnert.)

Severe weather looms; make plans now to stay safe

Tom and Marlysue Holmquist team up every February to welcome newborn calves to their farm near Smolan, Kansas. During extreme winter conditions, their kitchen doubles as a refuge. (Journal photo by Tim Unruh.)

Holmquist kitchen for family, friends, and newborn calves

The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. (Map courtesy of NDMC.)

Pacific storms dump snow into Colorado, New Mexico

The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. (Map courtesy of NDMC.)

Storms, cold temps blanket the High Plains

The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. (Map courtesy of NDMC.)

Stormy week helps ease drought stress

Courtesy photo.

Utility readies for winter storm to impact Kansas

The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. (Map courtesy of NDMC.)

Rain, snow fell in parts of Plains