Learn How Drought and Smoke Have Impacted Crops during Northeast Iowa Field Day on August 31, 2023

Aug 14, 2023

The annual fall field day at Iowa State University’s Northeast Research and Demonstration Farm will feature presentations on how drought and smoke have impacted crops, corn rootworm and short stature corn.

The event will be held Aug. 31, beginning with a complimentary meal at noon, sponsored by the Iowa Soybean Association, and run until 4:30 p.m.

The field day is free and open to the public. It starts at the Borlaug Learning Center Headquarters, located on the research farm.

From Nashua at the junction of Highway 218 (Exit 220) and County Road B60, go west on Highway B60 1.1 miles to Windfall Ave., then south 1 mile to 290th St., then east 0.2 miles to the farm. Certified Crop Adviser Credits will be available.

Source : iastate.edu

Video: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.