The latest U.S. Drought Monitor indicates extensive dry and drought conditions affecting significant portions of the country, a situation exacerbated by higher-than-usual temperatures and lower-than-normal rainfall.

Recent temperature analyses reveal that most regions are experiencing temperatures 1–5°F above normal. Isolated areas in California, Minnesota, and North Dakota, however, have recorded below-normal temperatures. Specifically, the High Plains and Midwest have experienced even warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 10°F above normal.

In the Midwest, while areas like Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin have benefitted from heavy rains leading to improved conditions, the southern and eastern parts are witnessing deteriorating drought conditions.

Tim Dahl, an agronomic service representative for Syngenta Crop Protection in Minnesota, noted, “Many areas of the state received too much rain.” Conversely, in Wisconsin, Nick Groth reported substantial rainfall following storms, making the conditions humid yet seasonally warm.

In Illinois, Phil Krieg expressed concern over the lack of rain in over two weeks, with temperatures nearing 100°F during the day and exceeding 80°F at night, stating, “Overall, soybeans look good finally, but dry and hot weather is taking yield away every day.”

In Iowa, Logan Dinkla observed mixed temperatures, noting a transition from cooler spells to hot, humid conditions.

The High Plains are experiencing escalating dryness, particularly in Nebraska, Kansas, and the Dakotas. High temperatures coupled with limited rainfall have significantly stressed crops and rangeland.

In Nebraska, Travis Gustafson commented on severe weather patterns, citing straight-line winds from a recent storm that caused damage across eastern Nebraska. “Time will tell us how much this affects yield. Otherwise, Nebraska has been fairly hot and dry,” he said.

In the South, scattered storms have provided some respite for parts of Texas and south-central Tennessee. However, flash drought conditions are intensifying along the Tennessee and mid-Mississippi River valleys, leading to widespread abnormal dryness and moderate drought conditions.

While the Southeast experienced areas with 1–3 inches of rainfall above normal and mostly stable conditions, moderate drought and areas of abnormal dryness continue to affect Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas.