Cooler temperatures have emerged throughout much of the U.S. Corn Belt following a steamy start to August. The week ending August 13 trended the 14th warmest and 14th wettest in the last 30+ years for the entire Corn Belt, according to WeatherTrends360. For comparison, last year’s comparable period was the fourth hottest and first wettest. Drought continues to be a concern across most row-crop states and the Great Plains. Rainfall last week was varied and, for the most part, missed much of the Western Corn Belt.

Lighter showers are forecasted this week for the Eastern Corn Belt. Precipitation remains critical as harvest draws nearer, especially as states like Oklahoma and Texas experience long-term, severe to exceptional drought conditions statewide.

Read more on Corn Belt weather here.