Weather

Intense, late-season heat wave pattern covers the western-half of the Nation

Across the Corn Belt, recent rainfall across the eastern half of the region is benefiting immature corn and soybeans.  However, unfavorable dryness persists in parts of the western Corn Belt, where summer crops are maturing more quickly amid hot, dry conditions.  Monday’s high temperatures will remain below 80°F in much of the eastern Corn Belt—but could reach 100°F in parts of Nebraska and South Dakota.

On the Plains, dry weather favors summer crop maturation and fieldwork, including Northern small grain harvesting.  Monday’s high temperatures will approach or attain 100°F or higher on the central Plains, including Nebraska, portions of which are experiencing significant agricultural drought.

In the South, warm, humid weather continues, although shower activity has decreased.  Some Southeastern producers are still struggling with fieldwork, including corn harvesting and hay cutting, due to soggy soils and high humidity levels.  On August 28, just 64% of Louisiana’s corn had been harvested, versus the 5-year average of 80%.

In the West, record-setting heat persists, except in the southern Rockies and Pacific Northwest.  During the first 5 days of September, myriad monthly record highs were set or tied across the region, contributing to renewed stress on rangeland and pastures, increased irrigation demands, and several fast-moving wildfires.  In the Northwest, hot, dry weather favors small grain harvesting but is reducing topsoil moisture as producers prepare to plant winter wheat.