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Farmers are entering into spring planting season with drought covering a most of the western half of the country. A new study looking into the problem shows dry periods between rain have become longer in the West.

“Over the last 20 years, we’ve never seen a drought situation looking like this through February,” says Nutrien Ag Solutions’ Eric Snodgrass.

2021 is off to a dry start and one meteorologist sees dry conditions expanding in the West over the next few months. So, could 2021 be a repeat of 2012? USDA meteorologist weighs in.

The latest drought monitor shows a dramatic shift. A year ago, 100% of the state was drought free. And today, 100% of North Dakota is seeing some level of drought; a concern for farmers who fear drought will linger.

Meteorologist Matt Yarosewick has a look at the latest drought monitor.

While weather this week is helping bring moisture to portions of the Plains, climatologists say you have to go back a couple decades to see a drought scenario similar to this year. The dryness is planting concerns.

USDA’s latest Crop Progress Report revealed 85% of New Mexico is seeing short to very short topsoil moisture conditions, and 83% of North Dakota is seeing topsoil conditions that are desperately dry.

The Midwest is catching a break from dry conditions with the help of some rain.

Some portions of the West are in desperate need of some moisture.

Look to see your risk for a dry start to planting season.