Red flag warnings have now been issued across several states in the Midwest.
Dry weather and winds are making for dangerous fire weather from South Dakota to Missouri. The National Weather Service warns that any fires that develop will spread rapidly and does not recommend outdoor burning.
The agency also warns that high winds may make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles like semis and tractor-trailers.
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Drought remains a major risk, with the ERS reporting that 98 percent of the U.S. cotton production area was affected by drought in early May.
Low snowpack and rapid melt are heightening irrigation concerns across the West as farmers face falling reservoir levels and strained water supplies.
Farmers say weather extremes and rising costs are creating a more challenging season across Georgia peach country.
Early wheat harvest is moving, but rain, drought stress, and disease pressure will determine yield and quality.
Analysts say drought, tight cattle supplies and summer grilling demand continue shaping the protein market outlook.
USDA says weather damage in key Robusta-growing regions is tightening supplies and lowering export expectations.