The spring outlook shows the potential for above average rainfall for a significant portion of the Midwest region, but no clear temperature signal.
Released last week, the outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) covers the spring seeding period, including the months of March, April and May. As shown on the map below, the wettest weather is expected for states like Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. Much of Illinois also tilts wetter than normal. However, areas west and north, including Iowa and Minnesota, show just equal chances of below or above normal precipitation.
On the other hand, much of Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas are projected to trend drier than normal through the spring.
Although drier weather would help to speed spring fieldwork, more moisture is needed across the Midwest, particularly in the more western production regions. The latest weekly US drought monitor shows just under two-thirds of the Midwest region was being impacted by abnormally dry conditions as of Feb. 18, with almost one-third experiencing at least some form of drought. Among the Midwest states, conditions are generally the driest in Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin.
