Drought conditions are worsening this past week as abnormally hot conditions hit much of the U.S. Corn Belt. And, with little chance for rain in the forecast, impacts on crops will be substantial. Available soil moisture in the rapid drought-expanding region of Northwest Iowa has deteriorated for two months as the area’s total rainfall only accumulated up to 1.5 inches in July. The area normally receives 4 inches.

The result is corn plants roll their leaves to retain moisture, shutting themselves down photosynthetically. When corn is at its reproductive phase, this survival technique will impact yields. Iowa’s corn conditions were rated 76% good or excellent, down from 80% the previous week. Soybean stands at 73% good to excellent, down from 75%.

Read more on drought conditions and the impact on Iowa corn and soybeans here.