Key Points
- Drought improvements continue, with D3 removal, and this is the first time without extreme dryness in 2 years.
- Around 50% of corn and 30% of soybean acres have been planted across the state.
- Another active weather pattern is expected in the next 7 days.
Past Weather
In the past 7 days, 1-4 inches of rain fell across the state. Western and southern Iowa received the greatest amounts. This was 200-300% of normal. At this time of year, around 1” of rain per week is expected. Some areas of Iowa experienced flood conditions due to heavy rainfall. Year-to-date, most of the state is at or above normal precipitation. Average temperatures across the state ranged from around 50-60 degrees in the past week, which is mostly near or slightly above normal.
Drought improvements have continued, and this week’s map showed some alleviation of D3 drought “bullseyes” in eastern Iowa. Frequent precipitation events continue to help replenish soil moisture. Topsoil and subsoil moisture are both reported by NASS around 65% adequate. Drought areas still remain because of long-term precipitation deficits.
Planting Progress
Significant wetness slowed down planting progress this past week. Around 50% of corn and 30% of soybean acres have been planted across the state, according to the NASS crop progress report. Some emergence has also occurred, with less than 10% reported for corn and soybeans. Planting progress is slightly behind the five-year average.
Outlook
Opportunities for precipitation continue. In the next 7 days, 0.25-1” of rain are expected in the state, with southern Iowa expecting the greatest amounts. This is much closer to normal values for this time of year than recent precipitation events. Dryness is needed for field progress to resume, and the active pattern we are in continues to make that difficult. The Climate Prediction Center 6-10 and 8-14 day outlooks both suggest precipitation is likely. The three-month outlook shows a warm signal and equal chances for precipitation. El Niño continues, but La Niña is expected toward the middle of summer.
