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 This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.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.
Berkshire Hathaway Raises New CEO Abel’s Salary to $25 Million 
Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to $2.46B Boy Scouts Sex Abuse Settlement 
CEOs on Guard as Trump Rattles Companies With Series of Edicts 
Tesla Door Design Is Targeted by New US Automotive Safety Bill 
