Crops in the American Midwest are poised to see the first extended bout of high temperatures so far this growing season.
As can be seen by the 6-10 temperature outlook below, above to much-above normal temperatures are expected across the east side of the country, with some of the hottest readings forecast for major corn and soybean production states including Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The 8- to 14-day outlook into July 8 looks warmer than normal as well.
The heat dome is expected to be centred over the Ohio Valley, middle Mississippi Valley and Tennessee Valley, while periodically expanding into the Plains, Great Lakes and eastern U.S. According to AccuWeather, Chicago could record at least five consecutive days with highs of 90 degrees F or warmer, while St. Louis may experience eight straight days above that mark. Some locations could approach 100 F.
AccuWeather said the hotter, drier weather pattern could be some good news for farmers who have been plagued by heavy rain and/or below-normal temperatures. “However, in areas where rainfall has been sparse in parts of the central and eastern states, the pattern could worsen the situation,” the forecaster said
The precipitation outlook provides some relief across Minnesota, Wisconsin and the northern Great Lakes, where above-normal rainfall is favoured. Thunderstorms are also expected to develop around the edge of the heat dome.
Much of the central Corn Belt is forecast to receive near-normal precipitation. While that does not immediately suggest widespread drought, average rainfall may struggle to offset faster evaporation and rising crop water demand under sustained heat.
