AMES, Iowa (WNAX) – Drought conditions that spread across much of southern South Dakota, eastern Nebraska and much of Iowa will linger into the winter.

Dennis Todey, head of the Midwest Climate Hub in Ames Iowa says it doesn’t look like there will be many chances to recharge soil moisture before freeze up.

Todey says that means the soils will freeze very dry.

Todey says it may mean a quick start to spring planting.

Todey says another danger with dry soils is that frost can get much deeper and cause damage to pipes and plants.