GRAND RAPIDS, MI —Downtown Grand Rapids visitors have witnessed a dramatic transformation of the Grand River as drought conditions have pushed water levels to critically low points not seen in nearly a century.

The river currently sits at just 0.79 feet above its pre-set zero mark , a stark contrast to the 18-foot flood stage. Water levels have dropped so dramatically that new islands have emerged in the downtown area, creating an unusually altered landscape for residents and visitors.

The Latest Drought Data: Drought conditions in Michigan last week worsened for some, improved for others; Take a look 38

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Aerial footage reveals the extent of the drought’s impact, with the river bottom and vegetation is visible in several areas below the surface near the Blue Bridge.

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