This week, widespread precipitation affected much of the U.S., with the Pacific Northwest and southern U.S. seeing significant rainfall.
Coastal areas from Washington to northern California reported up to 15 inches, while parts of the southeast and Ohio Valley saw totals between 2 and 10 inches.
The rain helped improve drought conditions across the south, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest. However, drought worsened in the southwest and parts of the high plains. Temperatures were largely high than normal, especially from the west to the Midwest.
The northeast and parts of the southeast experienced cooler-than-usual conditions.
As we start a new year, Ag Web reports that 70% of the U.S. faces drought.
The dry fall could signal the possibility of a dry planting season for key crops like corn and soybeans. Deep soil dryness is particularly concerning in the Corn Belt and Southwest.
One meteorologist warns that unless weather patterns shift, drought conditions could worsen across the plains and Midwest, creating significant challenges for the 2025 growing season.
Traders say that shift could eventually prompt the USDA to scale back soybean export projections, noting the outlook differs greatly for other grain commodities.
January 30, 2026 01:13 PM
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The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.
January 30, 2026 12:51 PM
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A rapidly intensifying winter storm is expected to develop into a bomb cyclone this weekend, affecting the Southeast, southern Virginia, and potentially parts of the mid‑Atlantic and New England.
January 30, 2026 10:52 AM
Often overlooked, cotton wholesalers act as stabilizers during market stress, translating fragmented retail demand into workable production programs for mills and manufacturers.
January 30, 2026 08:00 AM
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Strong blending demand continues to support ethanol use even as production and exports fluctuate.
January 30, 2026 07:00 AM
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer helps producers navigate farm program payments and understand the key details farmers need to know.
January 29, 2026 01:25 PM
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