Experts at Ohio State University warn farmers to be on high alert this harvest season as over 95% of the state experiences abnormally dry conditions.
Warm temperatures combined with a lack of rainfall have resulted in more than half of the state facing severe drought, 30% extreme drought, and nearly 10% in exceptional drought.
An OSU Field Specialist says that they have seen numerous fires just this week and the situation will get worse this fall.
Experts advise farmers to stay on top of their day-to-day maintenance, blowing off plant material regularly, and checking for faulty wiring and even fuel leaks.
They say that farmers should consider attaching a chain to the bottom of combines to reduce the buildup of static electricity and keep fire extinguishers ready.
They say that farmers should consider attaching a chain to the bottom of combines to reduce the buildup of static electricity and keep fire extinguishers ready.
