GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — As precipitation levels remain well below average for the year, several areas in West Michigan are now experiencing severe drought conditions. According to the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor, all of Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa counties have been elevated to the severe drought category as well as portions of Barry, Ionia, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren counties.
Officials say these conditions could start to have a significant effect on agriculture, including the possibility of the loss of crops. It could also lead to some water shortages as levels in private wells could start to drop. The rest of the lower peninsula remains in the Moderate Drought category, apart from some northern areas.
Forecasts for the next six to ten days show a chance for some rain several days which could provide some relief.
