A recent dry spell has brought most of the region back into the U.S. Drought Monitor Report. According to the latest data, abnormally dry conditions now persist through all of Marion and the majority of Warren Counties, with all of Mahaska, Polk, Jasper, Monroe, and Lucas also in that category. The month-to-date precipitation recorded of 1.3 inches in Marion County is well below the 3.84 30-year average observed by the National Weather Service. The dry conditions are short-term in nature, as south central Iowa observed above normal snowfall this past winter. Chances for rain showers return this evening, and possibly Monday into Tuesday morning. In the long range forecast, afternoon highs in the low-to-mid-60s and partly-to-mostly cloudy skies are currently the trend for the upcoming Tulip Time Celebration May 6th through the 8th. Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS for the latest weather information.