Birmingham, Alabama, October 5, 2025
News Summary
Birmingham, Alabama, is experiencing moderate drought conditions that are impacting local farmers. With significant challenges related to irrigation, farmers are adapting their techniques to maintain crops like soybeans and corn. The Alabama Department of Agriculture has acknowledged the worsening situation, but some farmers remain hopeful for rain in the coming weeks. Solutions and resources are being shared to support affected farmers during this dry spell.
Birmingham, Alabama is currently grappling with moderate drought conditions that are impacting local farmers. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor map indicates that much of Alabama is highlighted in yellow or orange, signaling moderate drought levels affecting agriculture across the region.
Farmers like Charles Caine, who has been operating in Alabama since the 1970s, are facing significant challenges due to the ongoing lack of rain. Caine highlighted the difficulties in maintaining crops during this dry spell, stressing that without rain, the situation is tough. He has sought alternative sources for irrigation and is utilizing drip tape plastic to control water supply more precisely. While this method incurs additional costs, it is deemed essential for sustaining critical crops such as watermelon, corn, and greens. Despite the water shortage, Caine continues to plant with a perspective of patience, acknowledging the necessity to adapt to the circumstances.
Farmers in Birmingham are currently concentrating on manageable crops until precipitation returns. Similar reports emerge from West Alabama, where farmers are noticing the effects of the drought through indications of exceptionally dry soil and visible cracks across their fields. Forrest Lee Wiggins, a third-generation farmer from Tuscaloosa County managing around 1,600 acres, has confirmed that his soybeans urgently require water, as the ground lacks sufficient moisture.
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) provided an update indicating that, while Alabama is not officially declared as being in a drought, the conditions are deteriorating. October is historically known to be the driest month in Alabama, which raises concerns for farmers if rain does not arrive soon. Nevertheless, some corn producers have benefitted from the earlier rains, which allowed the corn to fill out more adequately.
Wiggins, who also grows corn, cotton, soybeans, and milo, remains optimistic about the forecast for rain in the upcoming weeks, indicating that his soybeans are “hanging on by a thread” and will need “an inch or two” to support continued growth adequately.
The ADAI has reminded cattle producers and hay suppliers about the Alabama Hay Listing webpage, a resource designed to connect farmers with available hay during this drought. This platform allows farmers to list different types of hay, including the quality and quantity available for purchase. However, it is crucial to note that the ADAI does not guarantee the quality or availability of hay nor verify the prices set by suppliers. In light of these challenging conditions, farmers are encouraged to practice sound business dealings to avoid potential scams related to hay sales and to report any fraud incidents to local law enforcement.
Looking forward, the weather forecast shows that there is a promising chance of meaningful rain expected in the middle of the following week, offering hope to farmers in the region who are currently facing these adverse conditions.
FAQ
What is the current drought status in Alabama?
Alabama is currently experiencing moderate drought conditions affecting local farmers.
What does the latest U.S. Drought Monitor map indicate?
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor map shows much of Alabama highlighted in yellow or orange, indicating moderate drought levels.
What challenges are farmers like Charles Caine facing?
Charles Caine reported significant difficulties caused by the lack of rain, emphasizing that without rain, it is hard to maintain crops.
How are farmers managing irrigation in drought conditions?
Caine is utilizing drip tape plastic, which allows precise control over water supply, although it is costly.
Are farmers in Alabama considering manageable crops during the drought?
Yes, farmers in Birmingham are focusing only on manageable crops until rain returns.
What does the ADAI say about the drought conditions?
The ADAI noted that Alabama is not in a drought yet, but conditions are worsening.
What resource is available for hay suppliers during the drought?
The ADAI has reminded cattle producers and hay suppliers about the Alabama Hay Listing webpage, which connects them to hay resources during the drought.
When is the expected chance of meaningful rain?
The forecast shows that the best chance of meaningful rain is expected in the middle of the following week.
Key Features of Drought Conditions in Alabama
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Drought Status | Moderate drought conditions affecting farmers |
| Regions Affected | Much of Alabama, including Birmingham and West Alabama |
| Local Farmers Affected | Farmers like Charles Caine and Forrest Lee Wiggins |
| Key Crops | Watermelon, corn, greens, soybeans, cotton, milo |
| Management Techniques | Drip tape plastic for irrigation |
| ADAI Advice | Resource for hay suppliers and advice on managing drought effects |
| Forecasted Rain | Best chance of rain in the middle of the following week |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham, Alabama Weather Forecast Update
Alabama Businesses Eligible for Federal Disaster Loans
SBA Offers Low-Interest Loans for Alabama Rainfall Victims
Alabama Faces Increased Drought Conditions Despite Recent Rainfall
Birmingham Barons and Montgomery Biscuits Clash in Playoffs
Massive Haboob Dust Storm Hits Arizona – Visibility Reduced
Alabama Business Council Discusses Economic Growth in Dothan
Birmingham Water Works Fixes Multiple Water Leaks
Birmingham Water Works Completes Leak Repairs in Mountain Brook
Birmingham Launches Community Climate Engagement Initiative
Additional Resources
- WVTM 13: Alabama Drought Impacts Local Farmers
- Wikipedia: Drought
- WVUA 23: Alabama Dry Weather Causes Drought for Farmers
- Google Search: Alabama drought
- ABC 3340: Alabama Farmers Urged to Use Hay Listing Amid Drought Concerns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Agriculture
- Yellowhammer News: Alabama Farmers in 38 Counties Eligible for Assistance After Drought Disaster Declaration
- DTN Progressive Farmer: Nebraska, Alabama Farmers Battle Woes
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
