10 photos that show how bad the drought is in Minnesota

From brown yards to low rivers, the severe drought is affecting much of Minnesota. And the impact is visible. 

The Minnesota River is below normal near Jordan, according to the USGS website, and photos (see above) show the backwaters of the river nearly dry this year compared to in 2019. 

The river height in Jordan was as high as 16.62 feet back in March but now it's 5.23 feet, which is the ninth-lowest level on record for that point on the river, USGS says. 

Two previous lowest points for the river in Jordan were in 2012 and 1988, both years produced a significant number of 90-degree days in the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota – and little rain. There were a record 44 days at or above 90 degrees in the Twin Cities in 1988. There were 31 days at or above 90 in the metro in 2012, which is the most recent significant drought summer.

Gooseberry Falls near Two Harbors is another area where things are running dry. Typically there are hundreds of gallons of water cascading down the falls as the Gooseberry River flows to Lake Superior. 

But currently, the picturesque falls that are a popular spot for tourists on the North Shore are running low (see below). 

Last week, the Minnesota DNR issued a drought warning for much of Minnesota, with 52% of the state experiencing severe drought and 4% experiencing extreme drought. 

Related [July 16]: Drought warning phase: Minnesota crosses troubling threshold

The lack of precipitation that has led to severe drought conditions has reduced water levels in many lakes and rivers, which can impact recreation and businesses that are dependent on the water, the DNR says. 

Related [July 18]: How much rain does Minnesota need to end the severe drought conditions?

For example, low water levels on some lakes have caused problems at public boat launches. The DNR said: "When water levels drop during extended dry periods, the concrete ramps at boat launches may no longer reach all the way into the water and hazards such as prop-wash holes can become more problematic."

In addition to lakes, many rivers in the state are seeing water levels far lower than average, according to the USGS's website. The DNR notes that lake and river levels are dependent on the amount of precipitation an area receives, how much of that moisture is contributed by runoff, how much water is recharged or discharged through groundwater and how much water evaporates. 

More images of the drought impacting Minnesota: 

Other photos on social media show cracked ground and brown crops due to the lack of rain this year. 

Joe Nelson contributed to this report.