Key Points
- Weeds and bugs are enjoying the warmth, so be sure to check fields.
- More warmth on the way next week.
Past Weather
Today, Thursday, June 6, was windy, with peak sustained wind around 30 mph and peak wind gusts around 45 mph across the state. US 63 north of Waterloo was closed because of little to no visibility from “a localized area of dense blowing dust.” You’re certainly not alone if you found yourself saying, “It wouldn’t be so bad without the wind…”
Spring 2024 came out to be the 5th wettest spring on record, which is unsurprising after seeing the statewide drought “busted” on the US drought monitor last week. This spring (March 1 to May 30), 10-15 inches of rain fell across the state. This was around 4-8 inches above average.
In the past 7 days, most of the state saw less than 0.5 inches of rain, which is just below the average 1 inch of rain per week expected at this time of year. This was a much-needed break from the seemingly never-ending storm systems we have seen this spring. Active storm systems brought damages across the state from tornadoes, hail, high winds, and some areas experienced flooding. Year to date, 2024 broke the record for highest number of National Weather Service issued severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings, with 580 warnings. The previous record was in 2004 with 574 reports.
Planting Update
This week’s NASS crop progress shows 93% of corn acres planted, which is only 2% short of the 5-year planting average. Corn emergence is at 81%, which is also only 2% below the 5-year average for this time. 84% of soybean acres are planted, this is on track with the 5-year average, and 60% are emerged. Soils continue to stay fairly wet, making replant or other management difficult. Many seeds or newly emerged plants continue to have wet feet as they sit in saturated soils. This may pose problems for later in the season if root systems are not well established or prepared for drier conditions.
Temperatures in May stayed just above average, and weeds and pest are happy. Keep an eye out for any weed or pest pressure.
Climate Outlook
The Weather Prediction Center quantitative precipitation forecast shows less than 0.5 inches of rain expected across the state in the next 7 days. Temperatures are expected to be right around average (80°F) until the middle of next week, then warmer temperatures are expected.
The 6-10 outlook from the Climate Prediction Center shows above average temperatures and below average chances for precipitation, so we can expect the next week or so to be on the warm and dry side, with a couple of days of localized precipitation. The 8–14-day outlook (between June 14-20) shows temperatures continuing to stay elevated, with 60-70% chance likely above normal. Near normal precipitation is expected for the 8-14 day outlook. The seasonal outlook still shows a slight warm signal and equal chances for above or below average precipitation.
