The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows 72% of Minnesota is currently experiencing severe drought — a big jump from a week earlier, when 52% of the state was considered to be in severe drought.
Minnesota Public Radio News reports the news is startling because at the start of June, less than 1% of the state had severe drought areas.
The drought monitor shows the more intense “extreme” drought category has expanded from 4% of the state last week to almost 19% this week. The news means that more watering restrictions are likely, and there could be an elevated fire danger. Farmers could also see increased problems with crops and feeding livestock.
Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
AM Best: Data Centers Pose Risks Beyond What P/C Industry Has Experienced 
Appetite for Insurance M&A Remains as AI Enters the Chat, Says PwC 
Read 14-Point Draft Memorandum of Understanding Between the US and Iran 
Eli Lilly Wins Court Order in Fraud Allegations Against Florida, TN Pharmacy Groups 
