Dry is different than unfrozen. Even for a nonchemist like me this is clear. My interpretation is that the drought is such that the topsoil is so dry that it doesnt hold together even though its below freezing? What I wonder is, what do we need to facilitate ice growth? My guess is we need a few days of rain to raise the water table, then consistent (but not frigid) below freezing temps. Then the groundwater could ooze out slowly under pressure and slowly freeze. Trouble is the rain would ruin what little we have now. But, alas this all matters not...we cant control it...all we can do is ponder about things we cant fix...luckily we have websites to provide us with whining therapy.
