A relatively quiet weather weekend will usher in an active pattern for much of the U.S. As high pressure relents, chances are good for above-average precipitation from northern Minnesota south to central Texas and eastward through the Corn Belt. The heaviest precipitation will fall starting in Kansas and Nebraska Monday, while North Dakota remains dry and is expected to see just light precipitation in a week when it will be common in many areas. The story in the west could become dire as spring unfolds; around 75% of the 11 western states are under drought conditions that now cover 44% of the total contiguous U.S., last week’s U.S. Drought Monitor report said. Though La Niña is easing, that transition will take some time, and concerns are greatest in California, Nevada and Utah, where spring is beginning with a considerable snow moisture deficit. Wildfire risks are expected to become an issue soon, as well as crop risks and even issues with power generation in the western U.S. as the drought continues. See more on the drought and the latest outlook for this week’s weather.