Continued rainfall in Midwest leads to drought reductions

The September 22nd drought monitor shows 78.9% of the U.S. is experiencing abnormal dryness or drought, down 2.1% from the previous week, with 59.2% in D1 level drought or higher, down 0.2%.Currently 22% (down 2%) of corn acres are in D1-D4 drought with 26% (down 1%) of soybean acres, and 58% (up 1%) of winter wheat acres also impacted. For livestock, 58% (unchanged) of the U.S.cattle herd is in D1-D4 drought conditions with 37% (down 2%) of dairy cattle also in drought.

Rainfall focused mostly in the central and eastern Corn Belt continued over the past week, delaying harvest in most areas. Locally, areas receiving the heaviest precipitation In the region saw totals of 6 to 8 inches. Outside of the Corn Belt rains also fell in Montana, and spotty rainfall was noted across the southern U.S. TheSouthern U.S. continued to see highs in the 90s over the period as well.

The National Weather Service expects rainfall to mostly clear out of the Great Lakes region over the next 5 to 7 days. Rainfall is expected to be heaviest in the Northeastern U.S. as a system is currently developing. Some relief from the heat is expected in the southern U.S., with temperatures over the forecast period expected to be closer to normal for this time of year.

Click here to view related maps.