Dry weather expected to continue

There have only been three years since record-keeping began in 1906 when no rain fell in Minden during the months of September and October.

And with not a cloud in the sky forecast for today, it’s certain 2020 will join 1917, 1954 and 1995 on the list.

It has been more than two months since the last measurable precipitation in Minden, or most of Carson Valley for that matter.

National Weather Service records indicate .12 inches of rain fell in the Douglas County seat on Aug. 24.

Western Nevada has been so dry that light dust blowing off the desert sinks has hovered in Western Nevada valleys bringing hazy conditions.

Work in the Valley has prompted more than one resident to report the plumes of dust in the air as fires.

According to information released on Oct. 29, Douglas County is experiencing a moderate drought, but severe drought conditions are dominating northern Lyon County, along with Storey and Washoe counties.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated Esmeralda and Mineral counties as primary natural disaster areas due to losses caused by the drought.

Agricultural producers in Lyon and Mono counties are also eligible to apply for emergency loans.

In Minden’s 114-year weather record, only 1929 has come close to having zero precipitation in September, October and November.

High pressure is expected to remain ensconced over Western Nevada for the next week with higher than average temperatures and cool nights.

The slightest prospect for precipitation could arrive with a trough next weekend, but National Weather Service Meteorologist Edan Weishahn said that strong winds and dry conditions are more likely.