The Climate Prediction Center updated their 30 and 90 day outlooks for temperature and precipitation last week.  The main change for the rest of winter in our area was a reduction in chances for wetter and colder conditions this winter.   Green areas on the precipitation map (Fig. 1) show areas of increased chances for above average precipitation.  Brown areas show better chances for below average precipitation.  Western SD to the northwestern states are still in the green and could see a more active pattern for the rest of the winter.  The rest of the state is in equal chances for below or above.  The recent storm track has really reflected this lack of precipitation in our area.  Figure 2 shows South Dakota now in equal chances for above or below average temperature again except for the far northwest.  With a lack of snow cover, we will have a hard time getting as cold a temperature in the area.  These outlooks again are a benefit without having to move snow.  But a few inches of snow cover over winter wheat would be beneficial at this time.

Figure 1

Figure 2