Drought risk in Missouri

How drought develops in Missouri

Missouri sits in the middle of the country, where moist air from the Gulf of Mexico meets drier air from the Great Plains. This creates a climate that is usually humid, but rainfall can vary dramatically from year to year and season to season. Droughts often appear in summer and early fall, when high temperatures increase evaporation and a stretch of weeks without rain dries out the soil. In some years, a wet spring is followed by a hot, dry summer, which can quickly stress crops, gardens, and water supplies.

The western half of the state is generally more exposed to drought because it lies farther from the Gulf moisture source and closer to the semi-arid Plains. The Bootheel region in the southeast, which relies heavily on irrigation for rice and cotton, can also be severely affected by low river flows and depleted aquifers. According to the US Drought Monitor, every county in Missouri has experienced at least one period of severe drought in the past two decades. The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) tracks these dry conditions and works with local agencies to help communities plan ahead.

It’s important to note that drought is a slow-moving hazard. Unlike a tornado or flood, it develops over weeks and months. This gives homeowners time to prepare and take action, but it also means the effects can last long after the rain returns.

How drought affects homes

Drought rarely causes instant structural damage, but the effects can be costly. When the ground becomes very dry, soil—especially the clay-rich soils common in Missouri—can shrink and cause the foundation of a house to shift or crack. This is known as differential settlement, and it can damage floors, walls, and even plumbing lines. Trees and large shrubs may also lose their root grip in dry soil and fall onto a house during a storm.

Water supply problems are another major concern. Homes that rely on private wells may find their well running dry, or the pump may suck up sediment and sand. Municipal water systems can impose restrictions on lawn watering, car washing, and other outdoor uses. In extreme cases, trucked-in water is needed for basic needs.

From an insurance perspective, drought itself is not a covered peril under standard homeowners policies. Damage caused by soil shrinkage or movement is typically excluded as “earth movement.” If a falling tree damages your home during a drought, that may be covered if the tree was healthy and the wind caused the fall, but if the tree was dead or dying due to drought, your insurer might argue the damage was preventable. Review your policy carefully. Flood insurance is separate, and ironically, drought-stricken areas can be more vulnerable to flash flooding because hard, dry ground cannot absorb water quickly. Contact your insurance agent to understand your specific coverage.

How to prepare your home

Preparing for drought is about reducing your water use, protecting your property, and being ready for water emergencies. Here are concrete steps you can take.

• Upgrade to EPA WaterSense-labeled toilets, showerheads, and faucets to cut indoor water use by 20%.
• Fix leaks promptly. A running toilet can waste 200 gallons per day.
• Install rain barrels or a cistern to capture roof runoff for landscaping, if local rules allow.
• Use mulch around trees and garden beds to keep soil moisture and reduce evaporation.
• Replace water-hungry grass and plants with native, drought-tolerant species.
• Have your well inspected and test the yield if you rely on groundwater.
• Inspect your foundation for cracks each fall. Seal small openings with a flexible, weatherproof caulk.
• Store a three-day emergency water supply: one gallon per person per day, plus extra for pets.
• If your home is near open fields or forests, create a 30-foot “defensible space” by clearing dry grass and dead vegetation.
• Stay informed about local drought conditions and follow water-use restrictions announced by your town or water district.

Frequently asked questions

How does FEMA rate Missouri’s drought risk?

FEMA’s National Risk Index uses historical hazard data, exposure, and vulnerability to assign each county a rating. Missouri overall has a moderate drought risk of 3 out of 5, meaning there is a measurable chance of costly drought impacts, especially in areas with high-value agriculture and vulnerable water systems.

What are the first signs that a drought may affect my home?

Common early signs include voluntary water restrictions, declining well water levels, dry and dusty soil, and higher water bills from increased irrigation. Landowners may also notice leaves wilting and lawns turning brown in patches. The US Drought Monitor publishes weekly maps that show which regions are becoming dry.

Should I buy a backup generator for my well pump?

If your home depends on a well, prolonged drought can lower the water table so much that the pump may run constantly or fail. A backup generator can help if a power outage accompanies a storm, but the real solution is well maintenance and monitoring. If your well does go dry, you will need professional drilling or an alternative water source.

Official resources

For current drought conditions, preparation guidance, and water conservation tips, use these trusted sources.

• Missouri State Emergency Management Agency – State-level emergency planning and hazard mitigation information.
• U.S. Drought Monitor – Weekly maps and data showing drought intensity across Missouri and the nation.
• Drought.gov – National drought portal with current conditions, outlooks, and local impact reports.
• EPA WaterSense – Tips on water-efficient products and simple ways to save water at home.