One thing is for sure, our wet spring and summer has obliterated any signs of drought across Minnesota, the eastern Dakotas, and central and southern Wisconsin. The northern sections of Wisconsin have recently exhibited abnormally dry conditions as most of the major rain events have stayed south.
Even the long range “drought tendency” models are predicting little change through December in our present unusually wet period. Growing degree days across the region have slipped below normal since March 1 as cooler-than-normal conditions have been prominent since early spring.
Weather Around the World
The heat across Europe has been a menace throughout southern regions lowering yield prospects for late summer crops.
Eastern regions of Australia have benefitted from timely rain, which has enhanced yield prospects for wheat and other winter crops.
Argentina has remained cool and relatively dry, which has slowed vegetative growth of winter grains.
Brazil has been sunny and cool as of late with sporadic freezes impacting perimeter regions of primary production areas.
Looking Ahead
All the long-range forecast models are easing into fall with uncertainty about precipitation chances along with subtle suggestions about slightly warmer-than-normal conditions. The major caveat is La Niña, which is still expected to materialize in September through November and strengthen over the winter months. This will likely usher in a pattern more reminiscent of traditional winters. Last winter was incredibly rare and this winter promises to be something we are more accustomed to.
Considering current crop condition and the extended forecast through early fall, there’s reason to be optimistic about incredible yields across the region this harvest season.
