Parts of Minnesota in ‘exceptional’ drought for 1st time as warm, dry weather continues

KSTP

[anvplayer video=”5049668″ station=”998122″]

For the first time, parts of Minnesota are in an "exceptional" drought as hot weather continues.

According to the Minnesota Department of National Resources (DNR) Thursday, 7.37% of the state is in an exceptional drought classification while 42.2% of the state is in an extreme drought.

Most of the exceptional drought areas are in the northwest portion of the state.

As a result of drought conditions, farmers are facing critical weeks ahead as they prepare to harvest crops.

Many say they are worried about the financial hit they will suffer after this dry summer.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, along with Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, visited a farm Thursday to take a firsthand look at the toll this drought is taking on farmers.

Over the past several weeks, officials have announced federal emergency aid for farmers. Minnesota’s share will be around $17 million.

Meanwhile, the St. Paul City Council approved an ordinance that would more strongly enforce water restrictions, if needed, amid drought conditions.

To read more about the drought, click here.