Warm, wet weather continues in Minnesota

Seeley
Dr. Mark Seeeley
Huttner, Paul

Since September 14th, we have seen some of the warmest weather since early August prevail across much of Minnesota. More than 100 climate stations have reported daytime highs above 80°F this week, and in western Minnesota, places like Windom, Marshall, Browns Valley, Milan, and Redwood Falls saw temperatures of 90° or higher.

Minnesota farmers were happy to see the return of warmer-than-normal weather this week as it was needed to speed up corn development towards maturity. Most of the state’s corn crop is in the dough or dent state (condition of the kernels) and needs some more time to mature and dry down before harvest. The warm temperatures also help soybeans turn color and drop leaves this week as they progress to maturity.

Normal rainfall for September typically ranges from 2.25 inches to 3.50 inches around the state, and so far, more than 40 Minnesota climate stations have reported 6 inches or more of rainfall this month. With 9.40 inches, Pipestone has already reported its 3rd wettest September in history, and with 8.19 inches, September rainfall in Preston ranks as the 5th wettest historically. The weather outlook to the end of the month favors above normal precipitation to continue.

Former University of Minnesota climatologist Mark Seeley talks about these topics and more with Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer.

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