Work

Refining Drought Assessment: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Condition Monitoring Observer Reports in Missouri (2018–2024)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In this study, we propose an enhanced methodology for assessing drought conditions through the systematic categorization of Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMORs) from Missouri between 2018 and 2024. Our approach introduces a novel classification framework to categorize drought impacts—meteorological, agricultural, hydrological, and socioeconomic—and aligns the analysis with established United States Drought Monitor (USDM) severity classifications. To complement this framework, we incorporate the New Drought Index (NDI), a recently developed quantitative metric that integrates atmospheric anomalies. Brief consideration is also given to atmospheric blocking patterns, which influence drought development. Advanced text processing techniques are employed to bridge qualitative and quantitative insights. The findings underscore the importance of integrating observer insights, atmospheric processes, and advanced indices to refine drought monitoring, inform climate adaptation strategies, and support proactive resource management.

Source: Atmosphere

DOI: 10.3390/atmos16040389

Authors: Sarah M. Weaver, Anthony R. Lupo, Sherry Hunt, Noel Aloysius

Institutions: University of Missouri, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture

Language: English

Topic: Hydrology and Drought Analysis

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896