Topsoil moisture conditions fall in the latest USDA Crop Progress Report.
Two storm systems are bringing precipitation to relieve the dry conditions but only in limited areas. The first storm system is moving along Virginia and the Carolinas, while another is moving through the Midwest and plains. One key ag state is dealing with dry soils as newly planted crops get started.
USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey states, “Even as far north as Nebraska, the biggest dunk during the week occurred there, at least among the major agricultural regions of the country...”
Even though nationwide moisture surplus numbers are low, he says that some areas, like the Carolinas and the northern corn belt, still have plenty of topsoil moisture.