The meager water levels of the Mississippi River come at a time for the transport of crops from the nation’s heartland|US Department of Agriculture|CC BY 2.0

Water levels at the Mississippi River are at their lowest depths in three decades, causing disruptions in one of the most critical commercial supply routes in the country.

The meager water levels come at a time for the transport of crops from the nation’s heartland. And Reduced water affects movement. The river is responsible for 92% of the country’s agricultural exports, and 78% of global exports of soybeans and feed grains. Halting operations on the river would cost the economy billions of dollars.

The decrease in water level is mainly due to the severe drought that spreads across the midwest of the country. The situation is serious. Tower Rock, the landmark island in the river which can only be reached by boat, is now accessible by foot.

According to the US Drought Monitor, more than 55% of the country is in drought, affecting over 133 million people, the biggest since 2016.