Severe drought conditions leaving local farmers concerned over crops

WARREN COUNTY, Ky. – So far, 2026 has started off much differently than 2025.

The area has seen 6.78 inches of rain, which is nearly 6 to 7 inches below average. That deficit is leaving some farmers concerned their crops may not receive the moisture they need as fields begin to dry out.

Sunny skies and warm temperatures have made for a pleasant start to spring, but those dry conditions are beginning to add up, leading to drought concerns. It could take a significant rainfall event to bring totals back to normal levels.

“To see it go to the total opposite of what we had last year at this time is a big deal, because we would have to do a lot of catching up,” said News 40 Chief Meteorologist Chris Allen. “We would almost need an event like last year to get back to where we’re supposed to be.”

The timing is critical, as farmers are entering an important part of the growing season. Some are starting earlier than usual to take advantage of the moisture still in the ground.

One local farmer says he has seen similar patterns before, including in 1988 and 2012, which led to significant drops in crop yield.

“Normally, we’ve come to expect 200-plus bushel corn yields in this area,” said local grain farmer Mark Chapman. “Since 2013, that’s been very common. In 2012, we were under 100 bushels. So you’re talking about a 50% to 75% yield loss if this drought continues through the summer.”

Still, Chapman says he is taking the conditions in stride.

“If we have a terrible year, I’ve lived through terrible years before. And if we have a great year, I’ll enjoy that,” Chapman said. “Farming is rarely average — the average is usually the result of all the extremes, and that’s the norm on the farm.”

Even with drought conditions in Kentucky, food prices are not expected to rise significantly, as the state does not have a major impact on national supply. However, Chapman warns that if dry conditions spread to the Plains and Midwest, where much of the nation’s food is produced, prices could increase as yields decline.

Locally, more established farmers may be able to absorb losses, but others who rely heavily on each crop may need to rely on insurance to offset potential losses.