Rains ease drought concerns

The persistent rains have greatly improved drought conditions especially across western South Dakota. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, only 20 percent of South Dakota is now in drought-like conditions. Currently the Black Hills is listed at moderate for fire danger while the west-river have low fire danger. State fire meteorologist Darren Clabo says those conditions are still subject to change before the end of the season. Clabo says the rains are causing vigorous grass growth and a dry fall could increase the risk of fires. At this time last year, nearly all of South Dakota was experiencing drought conditions.