Triple-digit heat has made its way to some key agricultural areas. Over the last week, temperatures have hit up to 110 degrees across the South Central Plains.
USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey warns this means trouble for the corn crop in those areas.
“We do have some issues developing across the South due to the extreme heat. Triple-digit temperatures are very close to that, have been common in the South the last several days. That unfortunately is coinciding with corn entering its reproductive stage of development. Now the South is a relatively minor corn producer in the United States. The acreage pales in comparison to what we see across the Midwest, but it is worth noting that in states from say, Texas to the Carolinas and everywhere South of there, we have seen potentially damaging heat.”
He says it is a sensitive time for corn, and it is all about timing when it comes to how big of an impact the heat will have.
The heat is also impacting producers in the Volunteer State.
Beef and crop farmer, John Woolfolk spoke with RFD-TV’s own Janet Adkison about his operation, the potential impact on crops this growing season, what measures he is taking to protect his livestock, and how this heat compares to this time of year normally.
Related:
Extreme heat takes a toll on cattle country
Handling The Heat: signs to look out for while working in extreme heat
Producers will be feeling the heat for the next ten days
