Iowa Sizzles Through Warmest September Start in Years

Iowa's start to September was one of its warmest on record, according to State Climatologist Justin Glisan. The statewide average weekly temperature was a scorching 79.8 degrees Fahrenheit, which is more than 11 degrees above the normal for the week.

The hot temperatures have been a challenge for farmers, who are busy chopping silage and preparing for harvest as they wait for corn and soybeans to dry down and fully mature. Despite the heat, Iowa's corn crop continues to rate well, with 77% of the crop rated good or excellent, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The statewide average precipitation for the week was only 0.37 inch, about half an inch below the normal. Northern Iowa received the majority of the showers for the week, which Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said will 'help chip away' at soil moisture deficits in the region.