Grand Rapids, Mich. – Farmers across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula are facing worsening drought conditions as dry weather grips the state, with little relief expected in the next two weeks. The U.S. National Weather Service in Grand Rapids said much of the region has received only about two-thirds of normal rainfall since January, and the past month has been especially dry.
According to the weather service, this marks the most significant drought Michigan has seen since 2012. Agricultural impacts are mounting, with reports of diminished crop yields and early harvests. River levels, already below seasonal norms, have dropped even further, raising concerns for both farming and water supply.
Communities across central and western Michigan are beginning to feel the ripple effects, from stressed corn and soybean fields to concerns about orchard and vineyard production. Residents may also notice declining lawn and garden health, while rural water tables are showing early strain.
While scattered showers may develop at times, meteorologists say no widespread, soaking rainfall is likely through late September. That means dry soil conditions could deepen, with increased fire danger and added pressure on farms.
Officials caution that conditions may worsen if rainfall does not improve soon, and additional drought advisories are possible in the coming weeks.
