Crop health takes a hit as drought remains

Scattered thunderstorms brought significant rainfall to parts of Minnesota this month, especially the north, where several climate observers reported rainfall totals ranging from 1 to 2 inches. But drought conditions linger.

“I'm surprised by the number of our observers around the state, who so far this month, have reported less than an inch,” said climatologist and meteorologist Mark Seeley.

About 44 percent of the state remains in severe drought. And with that drought crops are in declining health. Over three weeks, the percentage of corn crops in excellent to good condition dropped from 80 percent to 67 percent.

At this point, it’s still too soon to see the impact on harvest.

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