Explore every episode of the podcast What in the Weather?

Iowa's top 10 historical rainfalls

• 10th Place: Sheridan (Lucas County) - 11.23 inches on August 27th, 1903

• 9th Place: Ionia (Chickasaw County) - 11.25 inches on August 9th, 2021

• 8th Place: Dumont (Butler County) - 11.28 inches on July 17th, 1968

• 7th Place: Castana Experimental Research Farm (Monona County) - 12.02 inches on July 17th, 1996

• 6th Place: Bonaparte (Van Buren County) - 12.1 inches on June 10th, 1905

• 5th Place: Hudson (Black Hawk County) - 12.28 inches on June 1st, 2000

• 4th Place: Rathbun Dam (Appanoose County) - 12.34 inches on August 24th, 2007

• 3rd Place: Le Mars (Plymouth County) - 12.41 inches on January 5th, 2009

• 2nd Place: Audubon - 12.53 inches on July 2nd, 1958

• 1st Place: Atlantic 1 NE (Cass County) - 13.18 inches on June 14th, 1998

• Definition & Media Coverage
  • "Corn sweat" is simply a catchy term for evapotranspiration
  • Justin Glisan was interviewed by major news outlets (Washington Post, CNN, USA Today, CBS)
  • The phenomenon was trending during the hottest week of July 2025 during a heat dome
• Scientific Reality
  • Corn releases water vapor and oxygen through transpiration (not actually "sweating")
  • Adds 3-5% to relative humidity locally (3-5 degrees to dew point)
  • Peak evapotranspiration occurs during corn pollination/tasseling season
  • Iowa has 13 million acres of corn contributing to this effect
• Comparative Analysis
  • Prairie grasses actually have slightly higher evapotranspiration rates than corn
  • Corn and soybeans have very similar ET rates during peak growth
  • Historical prairie landscape would have different hydrology and soil structure
  • Modeling is used to understand these complex comparisons since full-scale experiments aren't feasible
• Weather Forecasting History
  • First tornado warning issued in 1940s by Miller and Fawbush at Air Force base
  • WWII and 1946 weather radar development improved forecasting capabilities
  • 1925 Tri-State tornado killed ~700 people despite warning signs, but no communication system existed
  • Modern forecasting balances accuracy with avoiding "boy who cried wolf" scenario
• Social Media & Public Education
  • Madelynn Wuestenberg urges people to stop sharing corn sweat TikToks
  • Working on program to fact-check weather-related social media content
  • Emphasizes need for agricultural meteorologists with both meteorology and agronomy backgrounds

Summary generated by Claude.ai

• Severe thunderstorms moved from Nebraska to western Iowa at 60 mph
• Wind gusts exceeded 70 mph, with 75 mph winds in Pottawattamie County destroying barns
• Council Bluffs received 2 inches of rain in 30 minutes causing urban flooding
• Des Moines recorded 83 mph wind gust
• 1993 was record wet year for Ames (20 inches of rain in July alone vs. 8 inches in July 2025)

• Rainfall chances continue through Friday night
• Cold front broke heat dome, bringing dew points down
• Temperatures: mid-80s through weekend, then back to 90s
• Minor rainfall chances early next week
• Northern Iowa has less rain chance as storm track moves south
• Expected rainfall: 3/4 inch statewide (below normal), 1.5-2 inches in southwestern Iowa

• 6-10 day outlook (July 29-Aug 2): Slightly below normal temperatures in north, near normal in south; 33-40% chance above normal precipitation
• 8-14 day outlook (July 31-Aug 6): Continued slight chances of below normal temperatures; western Iowa slightly wetter, eastern Iowa near normal
• Normal temperatures: Daily highs mid-80s, lows in 60s

• Yesterday and prior day were hot, with cloud cover mitigating worst conditions in central Iowa
• Eastern Iowa experienced "dew point pooling" with dew points in upper 70s-low 80s
• Hottest reading: Dubuque Lock and Dam hit 95°F with heat index of 110°F

• 6 AM tornado warnings in central Iowa
• Tornado warnings near Maxwell and eastern Iowa
• Caused by remnants of mesoscale convective vortex from Kansas moving along warm boundary

• Northeast Iowa: 4-4.5 inches (highest)
• Central Iowa: 3-3.5 inches
• Southwest Iowa: Trace to 0.25 inches (lowest, drought conditions persist)

• Farm in Chariton, Iowa had garlic crop with yellowing (suspected aster yellows)
• Testing revealed it was a virus, not aster yellows phytoplasma
• Cannot save seed for next year due to virus
• Comparison with aunt's clean stock showed dramatic difference
• At a different farm, possible Embellisia skin blotch observed on garlic wrappers

• Black rot & alternaria affecting collards, broccoli, and kale
• Wet conditions exacerbating disease problems

• Nitrogen leaching due to excessive moisture
• Fertilization may be necessary to supplement leached nutrients

• Onions in Central Minnesota: Unexpectedly bolting across all varieties (planted from seed this spring)
• Zucchini: Poor fruit set, currently "worst crop of the year" candidate
• Tomatoes: Slow growth, fruit remaining green
• General pollination: Poor across multiple crops due to hot, wet conditions
• Heat may be affecting fruit set in tomatoes and peppers (flower abortion)

• July 30: Cut flower field walk at River Root Farm (Decorah)
• July 31-Aug 1: Plant Peddler educator field day and variety day (Cresco)
• August 2: Grow Johnson County field day and food safety workshop
• August 5: Iowa State fruit and vegetable Field Day
• August 20: Midwest mechanical weed control field day

• Hiatus announcement: No new episodes for 3 weeks (pre-recorded content only)
• Return date: August 21st, 2025

summary generated using Claude.ai

• Weather History

  • On July 17, 1972, slow-moving morning thunderstorms dropped 5.5 inches of rain at Sioux City, setting the all-time daily rainfall record there (still standing). Other highlights: 4.63 inches at Sac City, 3.45 inches at Humboldt.

• Short-Term Weather Outlook

  • Cool air has returned after a recent frontal passage, but temperatures are forecast to increase again heading into next week.

  • There are chances for showers and thunderstorms through the weekend.

  • A “Ring of Fire” storm pattern will set up as a heat dome builds south over Missouri, leading to more storms along its northern edge (ridge riders/squall lines), likely north of Iowa, affecting the Upper Midwest (ND, SD, MN, WI).

• Medium-Range Weather Setup

  • The bullseye of the heat dome appears over Missouri July 22–26; during this time, Iowa will see a precipitation gradient, with most rain favored in northeast Iowa.

  • Precipitation forecast is variable, and storm placement will become clearer closer to each event.

  • Southeast Iowa (and previously drier northern counties) have recently received significant rainfall, shifting them from "have-nots" to "haves." Ottumwa remains in moderate drought ("D1") as a stubborn dry spot.

• Climate Outlook

  • 6–10 and 8–14 day forecasts show high probabilities for above-normal warmth (especially south), then continued wetness through late July.

  • The 3–4 week outlook through August 8 gives no clear signal on temperatures, with a slight lean toward dryness in southwestern Iowa.

  • Initial August outlooks show “equal chances” for temperature and precipitation over southern and central Iowa, a result of persistent widespread soil moisture which helps moderate heat.

• Atmospheric Impacts

  • Recent wetness tamps down temperature extremes due to moist soils and increased cloud cover.

  • The area’s high dew points indicate low atmospheric demand, reducing drought risk but potentially increasing plant disease issues.

• Past Week's Weather

  • Severe weather last Friday produced two weak tornadoes in southern and eastern Iowa, with no widespread damage.

  • Wildfire smoke from Canada arrived over the weekend after a strong cold front and wind shift to northwesterly flow.

  • Wet conditions continued across much of the state.

• Foliar Disease Risk

  • Prolonged wet conditions are increasing foliar disease risks in specialty crops. Preventive fungicide programs are recommended for conventional growers, especially on brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower).

  • Summary of biopesticide efficacy for brassica diseases (per Meg McGrath, Cornell University):

    • For black rot: Oxidate worked in 1 of 1 trial, Regalia in 1 of 2, copper in 4 of 5, Double Nickel in 1 of 1.

    • For alternaria: copper is most effective.

    • Over-use of copper risks resistance and soil accumulation; organic certification requires soil copper testing before use.

  • For basil downy mildew: Only resistant varieties (notably the Prospera series) provide reliable control—fungicides are not effective.

  • For powdery mildew on pumpkins and squash: Use potassium bicarbonate products like Kaligreen or Milstop (these are safer than baking soda due to plant salt sensitivity).

• Disease and Cost Monitoring

  • Meg McGrath's cost-per-acre chart helps growers compare costs of biopesticides and fungicides

• Beet and Swiss Chard Disease

  • Cercospora leaf spot is appearing on beet and Swiss chard leaves, making chard unmarketable. Resistant varieties like Char Bell are advised for chard.

• Japanese Beetle Management

  • Listener asked about Milky Spore for Japanese beetle grub control. Dan cautions little evidence supports its effectiveness and prefers pest exclusion over soil treatments, since beetles migrate from other areas.

  • Pheromone traps may attract more beetles than they catch—sometimes best given to neighbors to ward beetles away from your crops.

• Colorado Potato Beetle Resistance

  • The second generation of Colorado potato beetle larvae has emerged. Rotate insecticide chemistries to avoid resistance (e.g., use Azera in the second generation if spinosad was used in the first).

  • Non-chemical methods, like knocking beetles into a soapy water bucket, remain effective—plants tolerate up to ~33% defoliation before yield loss.

• The Fruit and Vegetable Field Day at Iowa State University’s Horticulture Research Station will be held August 5th, 2:00–5:30 PM (free, with supper and registration link provided).

• The Plant Peddler "Educate the Educators" Day is July 31st in Cresco, with a feast and entertainment; the next day is Variety Day showcasing mature bedding plants (trade show only, not for sale).

• Practical Farmers of Iowa opened applications for the horticulture program coordinator position.

Podcast summary generated using perplexity.ai

• Heavy Rainfall:

  • Rain gauges in the Des Moines area report 1–2.2 inches; some areas in western/central Iowa received up to 6 inches in the past week.

  • Southeast Iowa remains much drier, with some locations getting less than 0.1 inch.

   

• Historical Context:

  • July 11, 1993: Major flooding in Des Moines, with 250,000 residents losing water after levee breaches.

  • 1993 marked 20 out of 37 consecutive days of measurable rain somewhere in Iowa.

• Current Wet Stretch:

  • Statewide rainfall is 137% of normal for July so far.

  • Several stations have received half a month’s rainfall in just the last 10 days.

  • Dew points remain high (60s–70s), signaling ongoing Gulf moisture.

• Short-Term Forecast:

  • Active weather continues for the next two days, with a chance of severe storms (supercells transitioning to linear systems).

  • Flood warnings and flash flood watches remain in effect.

  • After the weekend, temperatures return to the 90s, then cool down.

• Medium & Long-Term Outlook:

  • July 16–20: Likely below-normal temperatures, leaning wet.

  • July 18–24: Continued cool and wet trend.

  • End of July: Warmer temperatures expected, with equal chances for precipitation.

  • Southeast Iowa may remain drier than other regions.

• Regional Details:

  • The "blue bullseye" for cooler weather covers eastern Nebraska, most of Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

• Storm Dynamics:

  • Stationary fronts and ample Gulf moisture are causing repeated thunderstorms.

  • Linear wind profiles have led to more squall lines and fewer tornadoes.

  • "Training" thunderstorms have produced localized heavy rain.

• Precipitation Trends:

  • 40% of Iowa’s annual precipitation typically falls on just 10 days.

  • High-intensity, short-duration rain events are becoming more common, often leading to localized flooding and drought in different parts of the state.

• Recent Event:

  • Two Texas locations received 11 inches of rain in just over 24 hours.

  • Catastrophic flooding on the Guadalupe River, with water rising 20–30 feet in under an hour.

  • Factors: Gulf and monsoonal moisture, remnants of Tropical Storm Barry, and stalled weather systems.

  • Similar patterns have caused flash flooding in Iowa (e.g., Clive in 2018, Des Moines metro in 2019).

• Disease Risks:

  • Continued wetness raises concerns about foliar diseases (e.g., black rot in brassicas and cabbage).

  • Wet conditions and heavy dews may increase disease pressure as the season progresses.

• Pest Observations & Management:

  • Japanese Beetles:

    • Active on crops like zinnias, basil, and sweet corn (can affect pollination if silk is heavily clipped).

    • Control options: Conventional sprays (e.g., Mustang Maxx), manual removal, and using trap crops.

  • Colorado Potato Beetle:

    • Reports of spinosad resistance.

    • Alternative controls: Physical removal (bucket method), azadirachtin, or biological products (though some, like certain BT strains, are hard to find).

    • Potatoes can tolerate 33% defoliation before yield loss.

  • Onion Thrips:

    • High populations observed in some fields, causing silvery-white damage.

    • Economic thresholds vary (1–3 thrips/leaf per Cornell/UMass; up to 30 per UC).

    • Control: Multiple modes of action, increased spray volume, horticultural oils, azadirachtin, and soil treatments with fungi or nematodes.

• Field Days & Workshops:

  • August 2: Field day at Grow Johnson County’s Poor Farm, covering no-till vegetable research and a short food safety workshop (counts as an annual update for PSA-trained growers).

  • Agrivoltaic field days in Ames: Ongoing research on crops grown under solar panels, with field days every other week through September.

Podcast summary generated using perplexity.ai

• Iowa Weather History:

  • On July 3, 2001, severe thunderstorms in southern Iowa produced very large hail: 2.5-inch stones at Osceola, 3-inch at Otley, and 4-inch at Truro, causing widespread and extensive damage.

• Recent Severe Weather Trends:

  • Hail has been infrequent this year, with the most recent notable event in north central/northwestern Iowa a few weeks ago.

  • The primary severe weather mode this season has been wind, with only a few pockets of hail and very few tornadoes (no tornadoes in May, five reports in June, including a landspout).

  • Despite fewer severe storms, thunderstorms have provided good rainfall, especially in northern and western Iowa, aiding drought improvement.

• 7-Day Weather Forecast:

  • Expect average summer weather: several chances for thunderstorms over the next week.

  • Temperatures will be typical for the season, with daytime highs in the mid-80s and overnight lows in the mid to upper 60s.

  • Rainfall (QPF) is forecast at 0.5 to 1 inch, mostly thunderstorm-driven and variable.

  • The best chance for statewide rain is Saturday night into Sunday, with additional chances late Tuesday into Wednesday.

• Climate Outlook:

  • The July outlook initially showed a large dry area from the High Plains to the Gulf, but recent wet weather reduced this to a small bullseye over Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa.

  • The last ten years of Julys in Iowa have been 5–10% drier than average, influencing the forecast.

  • The first half of July still leans wet for most of Iowa; models suggest the second half could turn drier.

• Past Week’s Weather:

  • The past week was about 2°F above average for temperatures and below average for rainfall.

  • The state is transitioning to a quieter storm track, and soil moisture has improved thanks to late June rains.

  • Eastern Iowa, especially around Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, Washington, Wapello, Linn, and Black Hawk counties, remains drier and needs more rain.

• Specialty Crop Impacts:

  • Zucchini: Squash vine borer is active and affecting small plantings; some growers report a lull in fruit set, possibly due to poor pollination (weather or varietal timing).

  • Squash bugs: Adults are mating; now is the time to scout for eggs and treat nymphs with insecticidal soap or oils. Adults are hard to control; many growers opt to replant rather than spray.

  • Japanese beetles: Now appearing, mostly affecting basil (culinary and cut flower types), zinnias, and grape leaves.

  • Basil downy mildew: 'Cardinal' basil (popular for cut flowers) lacks resistance and is vulnerable. 'Thai Prospera' basil offers downy mildew resistance and may be a better filler for bouquets.

  • Garlic: Harvest is beginning. Use the "five green leaves, sixth browning" rule to time harvest for optimal bulb quality and storage.

  • Tomato spotted wilt virus: A grower in Kalona who lost most of his tomato crop to this virus in previous years now sees minimal infection, likely due to reduced thrips pressure. Onion thrips can also vector the virus, so monitor onions for thrips damage.

• Upcoming Resources and Events:

  • Dan will share links in the newsletter on strawberry plug planting, spring broccoli variety trials, root maggot information, and upcoming field days (flower field day in Decorah, urban ag field day in Waterloo, and a native plant propagation survey).

summary generated using Perplexity.ai

• Historical reference: June 26, 1993 - Severe hailstorms in western Iowa with golf ball to softball-sized hail caused extensive damage to crops, trees, cars, and buildings
• Recent weather: 150-400% of normal rainfall across southern Iowa with some areas receiving 3-8 inches (equivalent to a month's worth of rain)
• Heat wave anomaly: Unusual combination of high 90s temperatures, high humidity, and sustained strong southerly winds for 24-36 hours - described as a "black swan event"
• Record temperatures: Many stations recorded daily record warm overnight low temperatures that didn't allow for cooling

• Short-term: Continued unsettled pattern with thunderstorms and slight severe weather risk in north-central to northeastern Iowa
• Coming week: Heavy rain potential (1-2 inches), cooler 80s tomorrow, then back to low 90s with Sunday thunderstorms followed by quieter conditions
• Extended outlook: 6-10 and 8-14 day forecasts show near normal temperatures with continued wet signal; July outlook leans warm statewide with slight dry tendency in western Iowa

• Sweet corn timing: First harvest expected within days - Roger VanDonselaarr (Prairie Produce, Grinnell) and Hilltop Farm (Dallas Center) 
• Production methods: Early growers use clear plastic mulch and row covers to accelerate growth
• Corn earworm challenge: Moths present requiring spray applications every 2-3 days, but wet conditions prevent field access
• Quality standards: Zero tolerance for worms in commercial sweet corn due to consumer expectations and processing requirements
• Drone spraying: Some growers adopting drone technology to overcome wet soil limitations, though wind conditions still restrict applications

• Disease scouting tips:
  • Stay out of wet fields to prevent disease spread
  • Start with youngest, healthiest plants before moving to diseased areas
  • Use clean clothes, tools, and boots daily
  • Disinfect pruners between plants
• Current diseases observed: Bacterial leaf spot in parsley/cilantro and black rot in brassicas

• Scape removal timing: Research shows removing scapes as early as possible (when just emerged) produces largest bulbs
• Manual vs. mechanical removal: Hand removal preferred as mowing can remove leaves and reduce bulb size by 15%
• Market considerations: If selling scapes, wait for full curl; if maximizing bulb size, remove immediately

• July 1: Plant diagnostic clinic at Twin County Produce Auction, Kalona (9-11 AM)
• July 8: Rodale Field Day at Midwest Organic Center near Cedar Rapids - featuring autonomous robotic ag tools
• July 31: Educate the Educators Day at Plant Peddler, Cresco
• August 1: Variety Day trade show at Plant Peddler
• End of July: Cut flower field day at River Root Farm, Decorah
• End of August: Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day, Ames

summary generated using claude.ai

• Iowa Weather History:

  • On June 19, 1996, severe thunderstorms produced very large hail in northwest Iowa, with a 3.5-inch stone near Hinton (Plymouth County) and a 4.5-inch stone at Cushing (Woodbury County), causing $200,000 in damage to vehicles and buildings.

• 7-Day Weather Forecast:

  • Iowa is entering a "blast furnace" pattern: temperatures will soar 15–20°F above average, with highs in the 90s to upper 90s and overnight lows in the mid to upper 70s.

  • Persistent high overnight lows will make it difficult for people and plants to recover.

  • Strong southwesterly winds will continue, bringing high dew points and Gulf moisture.

  • By days 4–6 (early next week), the northwestern two-thirds of Iowa could see 2–5 inches of rain, especially in western Iowa, which needs relief from drought.

• Climate Outlook:

  • The 6–10 day forecast shows the heat shifting east, with a tighter temperature gradient and continued potential for heavy rainfall, especially in northern Iowa.

  • The 8–14 day outlook keeps a warm and wet signal, which is positive for the wettest month of the year after recent dryness.

  • The 3–4 week outlook still leans warm, with no clear signal on rainfall.

  • The initial July outlook (issued June 19) leans slightly warm statewide, with a slight lean dry in the western third of Iowa.

• Recent Weather and Notables:

  • The past week was slightly warmer than average with an unsettled pattern of pulse and “popcorn” thunderstorms across the state.

  • Severe weather ingredients did not come together for widespread severe storms, but there was a landspout tornado in eastern Iowa.

  • Landspouts are weaker, photogenic tornadoes (a step above dust devils), typically anticyclonic, and distinct from stronger tornadoes.

• Specialty Crop Impacts:

  • Hot weather is negatively affecting broccoli development, leading to issues like “brown bead” (brown florets) and heat-delayed buds.

    • Brown bead can be caused by hot, humid nights; broccolini is less susceptible and can regrow after harvest.

    • Hollow stem in broccoli may result from fast growth due to excess nitrogen and water, not just boron deficiency. Tighter in-row spacing and careful nitrogen management can reduce hollow stem.

    • Boron deficiency causes brown, dead cells lining the hollow stem, while fast growth causes uniformly green or white hollows.

    • Boron should be mixed with other powders for uniform soil application to avoid toxicity.

    • Some broccoli varieties (e.g., Green Magic) are more prone to hollow stem than newer ones (e.g., Eastern Crown).

    • Heat can also cause uneven, lighter green patches in broccoli heads (heat-delayed buds).

    • Brown bead does not grow out, but heat-delayed buds sometimes do

  • Cabbage White butterflies and their caterpillars are active.

    • BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) sprays are effective when caterpillars are first seen, especially on new growth and broccoli heads.

    • Rotate BT with other organic insecticides if resistance is suspected.

    • Cabbage moth caterpillars can hide inside broccoli heads, making washing difficult.

Summary created using Perplexity.ai

June 13, 1976: an F5 tornado near Luther, Iowa, was one of the largest in state history. The tornado, nearly a mile wide, spawned multiple satellite tornadoes and caused widespread destruction between Boone and Ames, demolishing over 60 homes and 300 farm buildings. Charles Barthold’s iconic photographs of the event contributed to tornado science and earned him a Peabody Award.

• Expect continued warmth with a risk of extreme heat in the coming week.

• An active precipitation pattern is forecast, with widespread rain likely. Most of Iowa should receive at least an inch of rain between June 12–19; northern areas may get up to 2 inches, especially with thunderstorms.

• The Climate Prediction Center’s outlooks (6–10 day, 8–14 day, and 3–4 week) all lean toward above-normal temperatures and slightly above-normal precipitation.

• There is a slight risk for extreme heat (June 19–21) and heavy precipitation (June 19–22, especially in northern Iowa).

• The past two weeks were cooler than normal, averaging 65°F (2–4° below normal).

• On June 11, hailstorms hit northern Iowa (Palo Alto, Kossuth, Hancock Counties), causing severe crop damage and total losses in some corn and soybean fields.

• Aster Yellows in Garlic and Other Crops:
  Aster leafhopper infectivity for aster yellows has jumped from near zero to 15–20% in Michigan, exceeding last year’s rates. Growers should watch for symptoms in garlic, flowers, and lettuce. One Iowa garlic grower observed premature yellowing and is testing for the disease; comparison with seed garlic from another location suggests possible infection.

• Squash Yellowing (B Gene):
  Yellow leaves in squash during cool weather may be due to the B gene, which breeders retain for its positive effects (fruit color, yield, virus resistance). The B gene can be identified by a yellow stem on yellow squash.

• Onion Thrips:
  High thrips numbers reported in onions and mulberries. Thrips are tough to control; Dan recommends using azadirachtin (from neem), horticultural oil, a spreader-sticker, soil-drench nematodes, and mycopesticides (Beauveria bassiana). Control is important because thrips damage increases storage rots.

• Aphids:
  Aphids can multiply rapidly, especially under row covers. Dan suggests treating transplants with insecticidal soap (e.g., M-Pede) before planting and repeating the spray after five days. In the field, use water sprays, insecticidal soap, oils, and azadirachtin. Tank-mix treatments after jar testing. Attract beneficial insects with sweet alyssum and other flowers, especially in tunnels or greenhouses.

• Squash Vine Borer:
  The pest is now active in central Iowa. Remove row covers from flowering squash, scout for eggs at the stem base, and use BT sprays or manual removal of larvae. Large fields are less affected; small plantings are at greater risk.

• Tomato Yellow Shoulder Disorder:
  This disorder is more common in hot weather and is linked to potassium deficiency and high fruit temperatures. Dan recommends ensuring adequate potassium and using shade cloth in high tunnels to keep fruit shoulders cool. Some cultivars are more susceptible.

Podcast summary generated using Perplexity.ai

• Iowa Weather History

  • On June 4, 1998, sleet and trace ice were reported in Rock Rapids, northwestern Iowa—the only official winter precipitation recorded in Iowa in June; none in July or August.

  • 1997–1998 was a strong El Niño year, noted for heavy precipitation events.

• Recent and Upcoming Weather

  • Unsettled weather with rain and severe storms in eastern Iowa over the past week.

  • Statewide air quality alert due to wildfire smoke from Canada, reducing solar radiation and lowering temperatures by 1–2°F.

  • Transitioning to a warmer, drier pattern with scattered rain chances.

  • Three- to four-week outlook: warmer than normal, but precipitation outlook is uncertain (equal chances of above, below, or normal rainfall).

  • 8–14 day hazards outlook: slight risk of high temperatures (June 12–17) and heavy precipitation (June 11–14).

• Storm and Precipitation Recap

  • Severe weather affected Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and southeast Iowa.

  • Tornado reported in Kansas City; unconfirmed tornado in Fort Madison, Iowa, possibly derailing a train.

  • Widespread rainfall: up to 2 inches in southeast Iowa, 2–2.5 inches in north-central and northwest Iowa, at least a trace in central Iowa.

  • 80% of Iowa received at least half an inch of rain.

• Temperature Trends

  • Last week: statewide average temperature 2.4°F below normal.

  • Earlier in May: above normal temperatures, then a cool period.

• Meteorological Spring Recap (March–May)

  • Precipitation:

    • North-central Iowa: 114% of normal (1.4 inches above average).

    • Southwest Iowa: 66% of normal (3.5 inches below average).

    • Statewide: 92% of normal (about 1 inch below average).

    • South-central and southwest Iowa: 5–6 inches below average, with ongoing drought.

  • Temperature:

    • Central to eastern and southern Iowa: top 20 warmest springs on record (since 1895), 1.5–2.4°F above normal.

    • Statewide: 1.7°F above average.

  • Severe Weather:

    • March: 1 tornado (average is 2).

    • April: 10 tornadoes (average is 6).

    • May: 0 tornadoes (first time since 2010 with no May tornadoes).

    • 2024 had 59 tornadoes in April and 47 in May—much more active than 2025.

  • Daytime vs. Nighttime Warming:

    • March: daytime highs 9.5°F above average, overnight lows 3.1°F above average.

    • April: daytime highs 1.5°F above average, overnight lows 1.1°F above average.

    • May: first half 4–6°F above average, second half cooler.

• Specialty Crop Impacts

  • Wind and Erosion:

    • Sandy soils in southeast Iowa caused sandblasting of young melons, requiring replanting.

    • Cover crops helped reduce erosion.

  • Pests:

    • Moist conditions favored slugs and roly-polies (pill bugs), which damaged pepper leaves.

    • Earwigs were problematic for dahlias.

    • Sluggo Plus (iron phosphate with spinosad) is labeled for these pests, but efficacy is uncertain.

  • Hay Harvest and Pests:

    • Hay harvest displaces potato leaf hoppers, which then move to green beans and potatoes.

    • Leaf hoppers are difficult to manage due to large populations.

  • Garlic:

    • Garlic scapes are emerging.

    • Removing scapes increases yield by about 15%.

    • Garlic scape anthracnose (a disease) can occur—remove affected scapes to prevent spread.

    • Aster leaf hoppers and aster yellows disease: this year, no positive disease tests in Michigan (last year, 4–11% positive).

  • Flowers:

    • Campanula and feverfew recently bloomed.

    • Dara and volunteer rudbeckia expected to bloom soon.

Summary generated by Perplexity.ai and edited by Dan Fillius

• 1906 Historical Frost: Late season statewide frost on May 28th with temperatures dropping to 30-32°F across multiple Iowa cities, though crop damage was minimal due to brief duration
• 2021 Comparison: Similar late freeze event occurred on May 29th with 37°F statewide average (13° below normal)
• Recent Frost Data: Last frost dates varied by location - Sibley (April 21st), Ames (April 12th), Keokuk (April 9th), though Mason City hit 32°F as recently as May 20th

• Short-term: Nice weekend weather with 70s-80s temperatures, some scattered showers and thunderstorms
• Long-term outlook: Moving toward more active storm pattern with warmer and wetter conditions expected
• Growing season: Expanding by 10-15 days due to climate trends, with later fall freezes and earlier spring thaws
• Moisture transport: Southern states' wet conditions could benefit Iowa through Gulf moisture transport mechanisms

• Memorial Day weekend: Quieter weather with temperatures 6-8°F below average
• Soil conditions: Persistently moist and cool, excellent for plant establishment
• Spring assessment: Very comfortable conditions, though not quite as ideal as 2024 when no irrigation was needed

• Excellent plant establishment due to consistent moisture
• No irrigation concerns for getting crops started
• Good conditions for transplant survival

• Blossom end rot risk: Persistent wetness reduces water movement and calcium transport in tomatoes
• Weed pressure: Moist conditions favor rapid weed growth

• Colorado Potato Beetle: Now active based on degree day models, targeting potatoes and eggplants
• Seed Corn Maggot: Second generation emerging, threatens direct-seeded crops like beans, corn, cucumbers
• Slugs: Increased activity in moist conditions, causing characteristic rasping damage
• Roly-polies: Higher populations in high organic matter soils may damage plant stems

• Use row covers for newly planted eggplants and direct-seeded crops to protect from Colorado Potato Beetle, flea beetles, and seed corn maggot.
• Scout for Colorado potato beetle eggs and larvae
  • Hand removal and soapy water treatments for organic pest control
• Monitor for slug damage patterns (round holes with scraped areas)
• Stay vigilant about weed management during optimal growing conditions

Episode Summary generated by Claude.ai and edited by Dan Fillius

Weather History:
In 1873, a deadly tornado tore through southeastern Iowa, affecting Keokuk, Washington, and Louisa counties before moving into Illinois. The storm produced very large hail (up to 4.5 inches in diameter), killed 8 people, and injured at least a dozen others. This event prompted the first detailed tornado damage survey in Iowa, conducted by the U.S. Army Signal Corps.

7-Day Weather Forecast:
Temperatures are expected to remain cool for the next week. Rain chances increase as the weekend approaches, with the best chance for precipitation Sunday night into Monday. The following week will be less active

Climate Forecast:

• 6–10 Day Outlook (May 27–31): Cooler temperatures expected in the south, near normal in the north, and likely below-average rainfall statewide.

• 8–14 Day Outlook (May 29–June 4): The drier signal is enhanced, and temperatures are expected to be warmer than normal.

• 3–4 Week Outlook (mid-June): The outlook leans warm and wetter, suggesting a shift to a more active weather pattern as summer approaches.

Past Week of Weather:
The past week was notably cooler and wetter than usual, with 3–4 inches of rain along the I-35 corridor and surrounding counties. Des Moines International Airport recorded 4.84 inches, the highest in the state. Temperatures were about 5°F below normal. Overnight lows dipped into the 40s, which is chilly for late May

Other Weather/Climate Discussion Topics:

• Wind and Hail: Northern Iowa experienced strong sustained winds (37–39 mph) and gusts up to 52 mph. Hail up to 2 inches was reported in Grand River (Decatur County) and Osceola.

• Wind Damage: Growers in northern Iowa reported significant losses of plastic mulch beds due to high winds. Wind erosion was also noted in sandy soils in southeastern Iowa.

• Weather Impacts on Crops: High winds caused physical damage to plants (broken leaf petioles, windblown soil particles), and some farms reported unusual leaf spotting, possibly from wind or chemical drift. Drift investigations are ongoing in affected areas.

• Precipitation and Irrigation: The recent rains improved abnormally dry conditions, but growers are reminded to water in new transplants as their roots are not yet established. Weeds are expected to germinate rapidly, so timely cultivation is encouraged.

Specialty Crops Impacts:

• Wind Damage: Growers lost plastic mulch beds and experienced wind erosion, especially in northern and southeastern Iowa.

• Leaf Spotting: Multiple crops (potatoes, radishes, tomatoes, cabbage, Swiss chard, cucumbers) showed inter-veinal necrosis, likely due to wind or desiccation, not herbicide drift.

• Weed Management: Recent rains will trigger weed germination, so growers are advised to cultivate early at the white thread stage.

• Cold Weather Effects: Cool temperatures can increase cat-facing in tomatoes and blossom end rot in susceptible crops. Growers are reminded to monitor for these issues if crops are flowering.

• Irrigation: Irrigation is less necessary after recent rains, but new plantings still require watering.

• Flower Crops: Rain can damage open blooms, but many flowers are harvested in the bud stage. Peony growers are drying blooms before cold storage to prevent moisture issues.

Listener Engagement:
Listeners should share their experiences and the impact of the podcast on their growing decisions, especially if they can quantify the financial benefit of advice received

Summary provided by perplexity.ai

• Historical weather event (May 15, 1968): Major tornado outbreak in Iowa with two F5 tornadoes
  • Caused significant damage in Charles City, Oelwein, Maynard, and other areas
  • 20 total fatalities and over 600 injuries
• Current forecast:
  • Transitioning weather pattern with thunderstorms possible
  • Potential for 2+ inches of rain across Iowa in the coming week
  • Brief cold snap with temperatures dropping to high 40s in central Iowa
  • Moving from "comfortably warm" conditions to more seasonable temperatures

• Moving past the "spring barrier" in forecasting (transition from synoptic to mesoscale/convective weather patterns)
• June outlook: Warmer temperatures expected across the entire U.S.
• June-July outlook: Warmer temperatures with drier conditions possible
• Soil moisture through end of May and early June will be critical for summer conditions

• Recent conditions: Warm with minimal rainfall (only about 0.05" statewide in the past week)
• Importance of irrigation for early plant growth and nutrient uptake
• New irrigation tool mentioned: Sumisensu watering hose from Japan

• Striped cucumber beetles emerging as a major pest issue
  • Overwinter as adults and carry bacterial wilt disease
  • Prefer cucumber family crops, especially cucumbers, cantaloupe, and maxima-type squash
• Control methods:
  • Exclusion (row covers and high tunnel screening with ProtekNet)
  • Parthenocarpic varieties that don't require pollination
  • Kaolin clay applications on young plants
  • Organic pesticide options (azadirachtin, pyrethrins)
  • Soil drenches with beneficial nematodes or entomopathogenic fungi

Podcast summary generated by Claude.ai

• Current conditions feature stable, pleasant weather 
• A localized rain event occurred the previous night (May 7th) across central Iowa, with amounts around 0.21 inches in some areas
• Weather pattern is currently dictated by an "Omega block" high pressure system creating stable air
• Forecast shows temperatures warming into the 80s with relatively dry conditions
• 6-10 and 8-14 day outlooks indicate:
  • Above normal temperatures for Iowa, though this pattern is moving eastward
  • Above normal precipitation chances in the coming weeks
  • Western US expected to have below normal temperatures

• On May 8, 1964, Iowa experienced very strong winds (60-75 mph, up to 85 mph in Des Moines)
• This created widespread dust storms described as the worst since the 1930s

• A temperature gradient between western and eastern US suggests potential for a more active storm track
• Possible thunderstorm conditions developing May 15-21
• Recent precipitation has been below normal over the past week
• Temperature gradient with southern Iowa cooler than normal and northern Iowa warmer than normal

• Dan discussed preparing cut flowers for Mother's Day sales
• Highlighted benefits of overwintering certain flowers in low tunnels:
  • Earlier blooming than spring-planted flowers
  • Longer stems on cool-weather flowers
  • Currently blooming: Iceland poppy, bachelor's button
  • Nearly ready: foxglove
  • Other successful overwintered varieties: dianthus, campanula, larkspur, delphinium, Nigella, bupleurum, bells of Ireland
• Shared an alternative low tunnel design using carabiners, hose clamps, and bungee cords
• Addressed a flower disease issue: blue mold affecting tulips
  • Disease infects bulbs during harvest
  • Shows variety-specific impacts
  • Management includes identifying infected bulbs before planting

Episode Summary generated by Claude.ai

• In 1911, unseasonably cold air brought rain mixed with snow across northwestern Iowa. Most snow melted on contact, but some locations reported accumulations: 1 inch at Denison, 1.5 inches at Alta and Lamars, 2 inches at Algona, Mason City, New Hampton, Onawa, and Rockwell City, 2.5 inches at Rock Rapids, and 4 inches at Elma in Howard County.

• Showers and thunderstorms are possible today, but the weekend will bring pleasant, San Diego-like weather: sunny skies and highs in the 70s. A quieter weather pattern is expected to settle in.

• 8–14 Days (May 8–14): Strong likelihood of above-normal temperatures. The eastern half of Iowa leans slightly below normal for precipitation, while the western half is near normal-overall, a little dry and definitely warm.

• 3–4 Weeks (May 10–23): The outlook leans warm with equal chances for precipitation. Precipitation remains difficult to forecast due to the spring transition.

• May Monthly Outlook: Most of Iowa is likely to be warmer than normal. Precipitation is split: the northeast leans slightly drier, while the southwest has equal chances for above, below, or normal precipitation.

• On Monday, Iowa experienced very windy conditions (gusts up to 70 mph in Ames) but no tornadoes. The severe weather event was well forecasted in terms of risk areas, but many Iowans did not experience significant storms, leading to a perception of overhype.

• The lack of severe storms in Iowa was attributed to a strong atmospheric cap, cloud cover, dust, and wind alignment that prevented updrafts, despite all other ingredients for severe weather being present.

• Winter Rye: Beginning to flower across Iowa. Growers can terminate rye reliably by mowing and tilling at anthesis (pollen shed). One grower plans to mow and bale rye for weed-free straw mulch.

• Overwintered Flowers: Iceland poppies are starting to open; dianthus are looking good. More flower updates are expected next week, ahead of Mother’s Day.

• Greenhouse Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are being harvested in greenhouses in Grinnell and likely at some auction houses.

• Garlic & Aster Yellows: Growers are on watch for aster yellows phytoplasma, which devastated garlic crops last year, especially in northeast Iowa and neighboring states. Recent lab tests found rotted garlic cloves infected with pythium and rhizoctonia, not aster yellows. The likely cause was winterkill due to low snow cover, not disease. Spring-planted garlic had much higher survival.

• Management Advice: Rogue out yellow, weak garlic plants now to prevent potential spread of aster yellows by leafhoppers. Mulch and snow cover help protect overwintered garlic.

• Soil Testing: New online and spreadsheet tools are available for interpreting soil test results and generating fertilizer recommendations.

• MASC Payments: A new round of Market Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) payments has been announced. Growers should check with their FSA office for eligibility.

Podcast summary generated using Perplexity.ai

• This Day in Iowa Weather History:
  In 1900, a resident of Creston was struck by lightning twice during the same storm and survived, though he was partially paralyzed, singed, and blackened by the strikes.

• 7-Day Weather Forecast:
  The coming weekend looks pleasant, but thunderstorms are expected to return Sunday night into Monday, with a potential severe weather outbreak (all modes possible, including strong tornadoes) on Monday. Afterward, the storm track quiets down, but temperatures remain above average.

• Climate Outlook:
  The 6–10 and 8–14 day forecasts show a warm signal for most of Iowa, especially the west, with near-normal to slightly below-normal precipitation in the north. The 3–4 week outlook (early to mid-May) is more uncertain but hints at equal chances for temperature and a slightly wetter trend.

• Recent Weather Events:
  Last week saw 19 tornado reports in southwest Iowa, large hail (up to 4 inches), and straight-line wind damage. Higher dew points in the southwest contributed to more instability and severe weather. Data gaps from missing weather balloon soundings affected forecast accuracy.

• Precipitation:
  Eastern Iowa received 2–4 inches of rain, improving drought conditions. Central Iowa saw around 0.6 inches; some western locations reported up to 2 inches.

• Specialty Crop Impacts:
  Discussion focused on potting media trials for seedling production. Vermont Compost Fort Light had high nutrients but poor germination uniformity; Pro-Mix had good germination but less vigor. Growers might start seeds in low-salt media and pot up to nutrient-rich mixes. 

• Grower Tips:
  For early melon planting, some risk of frost is accepted for the chance at early harvest and higher profits. Strawberry growers should watch for blossom pests.

Podcast summary generated using Perplexity.ai

• The hosts recall a historic severe weather event: an F3 tornado in Van Buren County on April 16th, 1967.

• For the current day (April 17, 2025), the main severe weather threat is large hail (1–2+ inches), especially from Omaha through Des Moines and Ames; tornado risk is low due to low dew points.

• Forecast: Severe storms possible overnight. Friday and Saturday expected to be pleasant, with more rain chances from Saturday night into Sunday. Rainfall of 0.75–1.25 inches possible across the state.

• Eastern Iowa, especially between Waterloo and Cedar Rapids (D1 drought area), is currently receiving needed rain.

• The 6–10 and 8–14 day forecasts show a warm and wet signal, especially in southwestern Iowa. The month-ahead and seasonal outlooks are less certain, with possible slightly increased warmth and dryness moving into early summer.

• Despite a strong signal for above-normal temperatures, the last frost of the season may not have occurred yet, especially in central and northern Iowa.

• Widespread frost is unlikely, but localized events could still occur, especially in valleys or low-lying, dry areas.

• Soil temperatures are fluctuating widely due to dry soils, with values expected mostly in the low/mid 60s to mid 40s over coming weeks. Some forecasts show soil temps as low as 42°F in northern Iowa by early May.

• Growers are advised not to rush warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers into the field before mid-May or early June, due to risk of cold soil and air temperatures.

• It’s been windier than usual, which is notable particularly in northwest Iowa.

• Cloud cover and cooler temps have persisted in eastern Iowa, verified by grower feedback.

• Accumulation of growing degree days is ahead of normal, prompting early alfalfa weevil egg hatch in southern Iowa.

• Some growers are experimenting with blackening cover crops to encourage warmer soils for earlier sweet corn, but cloudy weather has limited the benefits.

• Problems with bean germination in greenhouse trays may be linked to seed maggots and/or sensitive response to high nutrient salt levels in potting media. Microclimate and possible ammonia burn are additional considerations.

• Growers are advised to bioassay suspect potting media using sensitive crops like beans and peas.

• The host corrects a previous statement: Strawberry flower buds are hardy to 20°F; open blossoms are damaged in the high 20s.

• With wetter weather on the horizon, growers are encouraged to finish field prep and tillage now, before rain delays field access and results in transplants outgrowing their cells.

*Podcast transcript and summary provided using AI

• Above average temperatures in the 50s and 60s
• Temperature gradient across the state

• Quieter weather pattern after an active March
• Windy conditions expected

• Leaning below normal temperatures along the eastern part of the state
• Near normal temperatures for the rest of the state

• Southeast edge of the state leaning slightly above normal
• The rest of the state near normal precipitation

• Eastern part of the state: near normal temperature conditions
• Western half of the state: 33-40% chance of leaning above normal temperatures

• Most of the state near normal precipitation

• Equal chances for above, below, or near normal temperatures

• Equal chances for above, below, or near normal precipitation

• Temperature: Low 60s for daytime highs, upper 30s for overnight lows
• Precipitation: About 1/10 of an inch per day (doubling by the end of the month)

• March was the 9th warmest on record (based on 153 years of records)
• Recent cold snap with temperatures as low as 18°F in Audubon

• First tornado of the year near Wilton, IA (EF0, traveled almost 2 miles)
• Localized heavy snowfall in March (band from north of Omaha through Mason City)
• More snow from March 20th event than the entire December-February winter period

• Strawberry blossoms likely damaged if left uncovered during recent cold snap (temperatures reached 18-25°F)
• Magnolia trees in Des Moines showing brown flowers from frost damage
• Some growers reporting issues with greenhouse transplants showing death to cotyledons or stunting
• Soil conditions have been dry enough for field work preparation
• Innovative approach: A grower in Louisa County burned down terminated cover crop to create a blackened field that would absorb more solar radiation, potentially keeping the soil warmer for sweet corn seeds

• ENSO Status: Last La Niña advisory with significant chances for ENSO neutral conditions developing
• Spring Barrier: Transition period where global teleconnections (like ENSO) have less influence on local weather
• Windiness: Iowa experiencing second windiest spring on record due to three strong low-pressure systems in March
• April is climatologically the windiest month for Iowa

On April 10, 1930, very warm weather pushed temperatures to 96°F at Clarinda, making it the earliest date of the year on which such a temperature has ever been recorded in Iowa. Other high temperatures included 95°F at Thurman, 94°F at Atlantic, 93°F at Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, and 92°F in Des Moines, Dubuque and Keokuk. At many locations, this remains the earliest date on record of temperatures in the 90s.

• On this day in 1936: Severe blizzard in northern and northwestern Iowa

• Forecast for the coming week:

  • Above average warmth

  • Chance of a widespread system early next week

• Discussion on Chicago Low vs. St. Louis Low weather systems

• 8-14 day outlook: Leaning warmer, near normal precipitation

• 3-4 week outlook: Warmer signal, equal chances for precipitation

• March outlook: Equal chances for temperature, slightly above normal precipitation for eastern Iowa

• Current La Niña conditions expected to transition to ENSO neutral in spring

• Warmer than normal temperatures (10-20 degrees above average)

• Frost depth measurements: Omaha at 0 inches, Des Moines at 24 inches (as of Feb 24)

• Recent precipitation events

• Earliest tornado on record in South Dakota (February)

• 4th least amount of snow on record for Iowa

• 14 inches below normal snowfall statewide

• Near normal temperatures overall

• Below average precipitation

• Recruitment drive for new observers in March

• Importance of citizen science in weather data collection

• High tunnel plastic degradation issue at Yellow Table Farm

• Slowed greens harvest due to recent cold spell

• Low tunnel crop performance update

• Heated high tunnel observations at Phelps Farm:

  • Celery pest infestation (russet mites)

  • Early emergence of spotted cucumber beetles

  • Dandelions flowering

• Avatar: Large variety grown by Amish growers

• Cleopatra: Medium-sized, 70 days to maturity

• Afterglow: Medium-sized, half Tuscan, 78 days to maturity

• Orange Sherbet: Large variety for direct market

Summary provided by perlexity.ai

This podcast episode was recorded on January 17th, 2025, at the Practical Farmers of Iowa conference. The hosts, Dan Fillius, Justin Glisan, and Madelynn Wuestenberg, presented an annual review of Iowa's weather and its impact on specialty crops in 2024.

Weather Overview:

• 2024 was the 5th warmest year on record for Iowa
• The state experienced its second warmest winter
• Iowa received about 37 inches of precipitation, making it the 29th wettest year on record
• A record 125 tornadoes were recorded in 2024, with the Greenfield EF4 tornado being particularly severe

Crop Impacts:

• The warm winter led to better pest survival, affecting crops like tomatoes and sweet corn
• Early season rain made pest control challenging and disrupted planting schedules
• Aster yellows disease was widespread, affecting various crops including garlic, carrots, and flowers
• Onions were identified as the worst-performing crop statewide due to various issues
• Spring carrots and Lacinato kale were noted as the best-performing crops

Notable Weather Events:

• Drought conditions ended across Iowa after 200 consecutive weeks
• Extreme humidity was recorded on August 26-27, with dew points as high as 86°F
• Significant flooding occurred in northwest Iowa on June 22nd
• The hottest temperature recorded was 102°F in Little Sioux on June 24th
• The coldest temperature was -28°F in Primghar on January 14th

Pest and Disease Issues:

• Various mite species, including crown mites, broad mites, and cyclamen mites, were significant pests
• Aster yellows disease affected multiple crops across the state
• Carrot rust fly was noted as an issue for carrot growers

The episode concluded with a Q&A session addressing topics such as long-term climate predictions, sunspot activity, and recommendations for adapting to climate change in agriculture

• A system moving through tomorrow will bring snow to northern Iowa, with 1-2 inches expected north of Highway 20.
• Strong winds and colder air will follow.
• The 8-14 day outlook shows high confidence in above-average temperatures, potentially reaching the 40s.
• There's a slight chance of above-average precipitation, likely in liquid form due to warmer temperatures.

• December has been warming in recent years, with less snow and more mixed precipitation events.
• The beginning of December 2024 has been close to normal in temperature and slightly drier than average.

• An ice storm occurred on Friday, December 13th, affecting areas including Omaha, Des Moines, and Ames.
• The timing of the ice storm during evening commute in Omaha led to significant impacts.

• Predicting mixed precipitation (sleet, freezing rain) is particularly challenging due to the complexity of temperature profiles and freezing lines.
• Small changes in temperature or location can significantly affect the type of precipitation experienced.
• Latent heat release during phase transitions can complicate forecasts by warming surface air more quickly than anticipated.

• The conversation then shifts to discussing tornado climatology and the evolution of weather technology.
• The official tornado climatology database started in 1950.
• Early records (1950s-1970s) only noted tornado occurrences without ratings.
• In the mid-1970s, a project retroactively rated tornadoes from 1950 onwards using newspaper archives and photos
• The Fujita scale for rating tornadoes was introduced in the mid-1970s
• There's been an apparent increase in tornado numbers over time, largely due to improved detection and reporting methods

• Weather radar technology evolved from repurposed World War II equipment.
• The first dedicated weather radar network, WSR-57, was introduced in 1957.
• This was followed by WSR-74 in 1974, which came in different frequency bands (S-band and C-band)
• S-band radars (10 cm wavelength) are better at penetrating heavy precipitation, while C-band radars (5 cm wavelength) are more easily attenuated

• This Day in Iowa Weather History (1880)
  • Severe storm with hail, high winds, and snow
  • Earliest recorded blizzard in Iowa
• Current Weather Update
  • First frost and freeze for much of the region
  • Forecast: Sunny, warm days (60s-70s), cool nights (upper 30s-low 40s)
• Weather and Climate Notables
  • Driest 7-day period of the growing season
  • Recent aurora event visible in Iowa
• Vegetable Crop Year in Review
  • Garlic: Some Aster yellows phytoplasma cases
  • Sweet corn: Early earworm infestation
  • Peaches: Poor year, isolated crops due to winter damage
  • Onions: Root maggot and foliar disease issues
  • Cucurbits: Decent crop, some pest and disease pressures
  • Peppers and Tomatoes: Foliar diseases and pest issues
  • Brassicas: Some diseases, but low flea beetle pressure
  • Cut flowers: Thrips issues, Aster yellows affecting various flowers
  • Strawberries: Mixed results, some early frost damage but good yields for some growers
• Predicting Frost and Analyzing Weather Models
  • Discussion on using various tools to predict frost events
  • Importance of looking at multiple models and data points
  • Dew point's role in predicting frost
• Resources for Growers
  • Climate Prediction Center models
  • National Weather Service frost information page
  • Weather stories from local forecast offices
• Conclusion
  • Last weekly episode of the season
  • Moving to monthly episodes with special features

Summary generated by Claude.ai

• Historical weather event: Unusually early snowfall in parts of Iowa on October 10, 2009.
• Current forecast: Dry conditions with chances of frost in the coming week.
• Long-term outlook: Trending towards warmer temperatures after the frost event.
• Discussion of the U.S. Drought Monitor:
  • Explanation of different drought types: meteorological, agricultural, hydrological, and socioeconomic.
  • Current drought conditions in Iowa: 98% of the state is abnormally dry or in drought.
  • Importance of accurate rainfall reporting (e.g., CoCoRaHS program).
• Specialty crop impacts:
  • Basil harvest should be completed before frost.
  • Sweet potatoes should be fine through the first frost night but harvested by Tuesday.
  • Mention of a cauliflower variety (Twister) performing well.
  • Discussion of a leaf blight issue in dill crops.
• Upcoming events:
  • High tunnel short course on November 13th.
  • Fresh Connect business coaching program launch.
• Brief mention of a fraud case involving ranchers tampering with weather stations to manipulate drought data.
• Announcement that the next episode (October 16th) will focus on frost and its impacts.
• The hosts noted this is their 29th episode of the year, marking a significant milestone in podcast production.

• Weather History:
  • On this day in 1938, temperatures reached 97°F in Onawa, tying Iowa's all-time October record.
  • Other high temperatures included 96°F at Little Sioux and Sioux City.
• Short-Term Forecast:
  • Current conditions are warm and dry, following the driest September on record.
  • Upcoming temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s to low 90s, with cooler nights in the low to mid-40s.
• Recent Weather Events:
  • Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida, causing significant rainfall and landslides in North Carolina.
  • Iowa experienced dry, hot, and windy conditions, leading to fire bans in some counties.
• Temperature Trends:
  • Daily high temperatures were 11 to 15 degrees above average; lows were about 4 to 5 degrees above average.
  • The dry air led to significant temperature drops overnight.
• Long-Term Forecast:
  • The latest Drought Monitor shows severe drought expanding in parts of Western Iowa.
  • Six to ten-day and eight to fourteen-day outlooks indicate above-average temperatures across Iowa, with a gradient of higher probabilities in the west.
• Precipitation Outlook:
  • Expected to be below average for both short-term and October forecasts.
• Specialty Crop Impacts:
  • Dry weather is beneficial for root crop harvesting but can make digging difficult if the ground is too hard.
  • Local Food Purchasing Assistance (LFPA) program received additional funding from USDA, aiding growers.
    • Some growers view LFPA funding as a short-term lifeline for capital improvements rather than a permanent solution.
  • Flower growers faced challenges earlier in the year due to flooding affecting crops like dahlias.

Transcript summary provided by perplexity.ai

• This episode was recorded on 9/26, but is being published on 10/1 due to technical difficulties.
• The hosts are Dan Fillius (ISU extension field specialist), Dr. Justin Glisan (state climatologist), and Madelynn Wuestenberg (ISU extension agricultural climatology specialist).
• They discuss moving to a monthly schedule for winter, with the last weekly episode on October 16th.
• Historical weather events are mentioned, including a 1959 windstorm and an early snowstorm in 1942.
• The current weather forecast indicates sunny and warm conditions, with a stagnant weather pattern due to Hurricane Helen.
• Climate predictions show above-average temperatures and below-average precipitation for the next few weeks.
• La Niña is expected to develop by the end of the year and continue into spring.
• They discuss the potential for a later-than-average first frost date this year.
• Aster yellows was confirmed in garlic samples from Winneshiek County, and precautions for planting infected garlic are discussed.
• Information on overwintering flowers and their benefits is shared.
• Cover crop germination has been challenging due to dry conditions in some areas.
• Updates on lacinato kale varieties and flea beetle pressure are provided.
• Sweet potato harvesting, storage, and slip production techniques are discussed, including methods for an African variety grown for its vines.
• The importance of soil sampling in fall is emphasized.
• Updates on urban agriculture zoning in Des Moines are shared, potentially allowing high tunnels up to 12 feet tall in yards.
• The podcast concludes with a brief discussion on soil temperature tools for crop planning.

• Weather History: Discussion of September 19, 1991, when freezing temperatures caused severe crop damage across Iowa.
• Current Weather:
  • Describes current pleasant and balmy weather conditions.
  • Thunderstorms forming in central and northern Iowa with a slight risk of severe weather.
• 7-Day Forecast:
  • Active weather pattern expected with rain forecasted over the weekend.
  • Anticipation of synoptic scale rain rather than thunderstorms.
• Soil Conditions:
  • September is noted as the second driest in 152 years, affecting lawn care and crop growth.
  • Discussion on reseeding lawns during this dry period.
• Agritourism Impact:
  • Rain on weekends negatively affects turnout for agritourism events and farmers markets.
  • Farmers are adapting by opening their businesses every day to mitigate losses from rainy weekends.
• Long-term Outlook:
  • Near-normal precipitation expected in the coming weeks, with a warm signal for comfortable weather.
• Summer Glory Index:
  • The Summer Glory Index for 2024 was calculated at 1820, indicating a mostly glorious summer.
  • Comparison to previous years and discussion of how perceptions of summer weather differ between regions.
• Specialty Crop Updates:
  • Report on sweet corn yields at Dan D Farms, which were affected by weather conditions.
  • Discussion of diseases affecting brassicas and recommendations for crop management.
• Radish Growing Tips:
  • Explanation of factors that affect radish spiciness, including growing conditions and stress levels.
• Strawberry Disease Alert:
  • Mention of a new disease (Neopestalotiopsis) affecting strawberry plug production, with advice on managing risks related to crop rotation.

This episode features clips from the Farm Progress Show with Patrick O'Malley and Randall Vos, both field specialists in horticulture with ISU Extension and Outreach

Patrick O'Malley's segment:

• Eastern Iowa has experienced a wetter year than usual, leading to fungal diseases in vegetables and fruit crops.
• Apples that haven't been sprayed are showing more fruit rot, while sprayed ones are doing well.
• Chinese chestnuts are a notable commercial nut crop in Southeast Iowa, with a co-op in Columbus Junction.
• Pawpaws are a potential crop for areas south of Highway 30 in Iowa, with pick-your-own operations emerging.

Randall Vos's segment on grapes:

• Most Midwest grapes are wine grapes, which require specific harvesting considerations.
• Table grape varieties recommended for Iowa include Somerset seedless and Jupiter (for southern Iowa).
• Wine grape harvest timing depends on three main factors: Brix (sugar content), pH, and titratable acidity (TA).
• This year's challenge is higher TA levels due to cooler ripening temperatures.
• Harvest window varies by grape variety and intended wine type (e.g., rosé, dry wine, fortified wine).
• Early-season varieties may have a harvest window as short as a week, while later varieties can have 2-3 weeks.
• Flavor and aroma compounds are difficult to quantify, often relying on human tasting for assessment.
• Winemakers can adjust sugar levels post-harvest to balance high acidity.
• Risks of leaving grapes on the vine longer include rain damage, berry drop, and bird predation.

• Historical Weather Event:
  • In 1913, an unexplained weather phenomenon occurred in Albia during the Yankee Robinson Circus, resulting in the death of a 12-year-old boy and injuries to 15 others due to a collapsing tent. Residents nearby did not witness any storm.
• Current Weather Forecast:
  • A cold front is moving through Iowa, bringing rain showers to Northern Iowa, with cooler temperatures expected.
  • Next week, temperatures may rise back into the 80s and low 90s, with a dry forecast and reasonable dew points in the 60s.
• Recent Weather Notables:
  • The past week was hot with some rain showers across the state.
  • A frontal passage brought above-average rainfall, particularly in northwestern Iowa.
  • Stagnant air and high dew points created a "tropical killer air mass."
• Tobacco Farming Update:
  • Farmers in Mount Ayr are currently in tobacco harvest time but faced challenges due to wet conditions preventing field access.
• Long-term Weather Outlook:
  • The 6-10 day outlook indicates warmer than average temperatures and below-normal precipitation.
  • The 8-14 day outlook also shows above-average temperatures continuing into late September.
• Frost Outlook:
  • No frost hazards are predicted for Iowa in the immediate future, but northern regions may experience frost.
  • Average first fall freeze dates vary by county: Kossuth County (October 5), Story County (October 7), Wayne County (October 12).
• Climate Trends:
  • Iowa has seen a trend of later freeze dates over the past 30 years.
  • The state has experienced a warming trend, particularly in winter.
• Summer Weather Summary:
  • Preliminary data indicates a summer average temperature of 72°F, slightly below average.
  • Precipitation was slightly above average, with some regions experiencing significant dryness.
• Mosquito Population Update:
  • A study found a significant increase in mosquito populations this year, with higher counts compared to last year, likely due to wetter conditions.

• Tobacco farmers in Mount Ayr were in harvest time
• Wet conditions prevented field access, potentially causing issues if drying doesn't occur soon
• The tobacco grown is used for cigar wrappers
• 12 acres of tobacco are planted next to soybean fields
• Not shade-grown

• A farmer in Lamoni reported severe decline in tomato plants
• Dan Fillius observed symptoms consistent with bacterial canker:
  • Plants showed rapid decline, with some completely dead
  • Classic symptoms of bacterial canker were present
  • Symptoms were more pronounced due to dry conditions
  • Leaf margins showed brown and yellow die-back (firing) from edges inward
  • Symptoms appeared on leaves throughout the entire plant, not just from bottom up
  • Bacterial canker was widespread in Iowa last year but less common this year

• • • Dry conditions exacerbate symptoms as the disease affects plant transpiration
    • The condition differs from early blight, which typically progresses from the ground up

• Key points from the weather discussion:
  - On this day in 1979, several tornadoes touched down in Iowa, with one F3-F4 tornado causing significant damage.
  - Recent weather included oppressive heat, with temperatures reaching 99°F in Des Moines.
  - A cold front is expected to bring rainfall and cooler temperatures.
  - Some areas of Iowa are experiencing dryness, with potential expansion of abnormally dry conditions.

• Specialty crop updates:
  - Cut flower production is increasing in Iowa.
  - Aster yellows disease is impacting various flower crops.
  - Basil downy mildew is a significant issue for ornamental basil.
  - Rhizoctonia root rot was found in snapdragons in a high tunnel.
  - Tips for managing rabbits and deer in crop fields were shared.

• Announcements:
  - IDALS has a job opening for a Local Foods Program Planner.
  - Upcoming events: Women's chainsaw workshop, Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Days.

• The podcast includes a segment from the Farm Progress Show, featuring Madelynn Wuestenberg discussing various weather instruments:
  - SoilVue 10 Soil Profiler for measuring soil moisture and temperature.
  - Weather station components: pyranometer, sonic anemometer, air temperature and humidity sensor.
  - Data logger for collecting and transmitting weather data.
  - Demonstration of soil temperature differences in wet and dry soil.

Podcast summary generated by claude.ai

• Date: August 22, 2024
• Hosts: Dan Fillius (ISU Extension Field Specialist), Justin Glisan (State Climatologist), Madelynn Wuestenberg (ISU Extension Climatology Specialist)
• Historical Weather Event:
  • Discussed severe thunderstorms in Northern Iowa on August 22, 1989, resulting in golf ball-sized hail and lightning strikes that killed 750 hogs.
• Lightning Safety Discussion:
  • Hosts debated the safety of showering during lightning storms, referencing CDC guidelines that advise avoiding contact with plumbing during storms.
• Current Weather Forecast:
  • Upcoming heat expected with mid to upper 90s over the weekend, followed by a return to the 80s.
  • Low chances of thunderstorms statewide, with some areas in southeastern Iowa potentially receiving 1/2 to 1 inch of rain.
• Climate Forecast:
  • 6 to 10-day forecast indicates warm temperatures, while the 8 to 14-day forecast suggests cooler temperatures with near-normal precipitation.
• State Fair Highlights:
  • Hosts shared experiences from the Iowa State Fair, noting impressive agricultural entries and the overall beautiful weather during the event.
• Recent Weather Observations:
  • Noted hazy conditions attributed to wildfire smoke from Canada affecting visibility and air quality in Iowa.
• Specialty Crop Updates:
  • General health of crops is good, but there are reports of foliar diseases and pests due to wet conditions.
  • Specific issues discussed include soft rot in peppers and Cercospora leaf spot in watermelons.
  • Recommendations for managing these issues include using drip irrigation and proper fungicide application.
• Brussels Sprouts Topping Advice:
  • Suggested timing for topping Brussels sprouts to ensure even growth and marketability, ideally less than 60 days before harvest.
• Personal Crop Experiences:
  • Dan shared positive experiences with growing Goddess melons, noting their taste and performance compared to previous varieties.

podcast summary generated with perplexity.ai

• Hosts: Dan Fillius (ISU extension specialist), Dr. Justin Glisan (state climatologist), and Madelynn Wuestenberg (ISU extension climatology specialist).
• Current date: August 15, 2024
• Weather history: Discussed extreme heat in Iowa from August 1988, with temperatures reaching 107°F in some areas.
• Current forecast: Expect mild weather with highs in the low to mid-80s and lows in the upper 50s to low 60s for the coming week.
• Recent weather: Nice conditions for the Iowa State Fair, with recent heavy rainfall in some areas.
• Climate outlook:
  • 6-10 day: Leaning cooler with near-normal precipitation
  • 8-14 day: Mixed temperatures across the state, leaning slightly drier
  • September: Leaning warmer and drier for the entire state
• Crop updates:
  • Potential issues with basil cold damage and cilantro bacterial leaf spot
  • Updates on sweet corn sales trends
  • Pumpkin and squash outlook initially strong but now uncertain due to diseases
• Mental health resources for farmers were discussed, including a book recommendation: "How to Keep House While Drowning"
• Natural attractions:
  • Freda Haffner Kettle Hole: A preserved native prairie area in Northwest Iowa
  • Discussion about fens and unique ecosystems
• The hosts briefly discussed personal experiences, including Dan's time working in Yosemite National Park.

Podcast summary generated using Claude.ai

• Historical Weather Event: On August 8, 1897, severe thunderstorms hit southwestern Iowa, causing significant hail and flooding.
• Current Weather Trends: The podcast highlights a record number of tornadoes (129) for the season and an increase in severe weather events, including 31 occurrences of hail over 2 inches.
• Recent Rainfall: Central Iowa experienced widespread rainfall, with Pella receiving 7.67 inches last week and other areas reporting 3 to 8 inches.
• Temperature Fluctuations: The discussion includes a transition from hot to cooler temperatures, with some areas in northern Iowa potentially dropping into the 40s.
• Forecast for State Fair: The upcoming week is expected to have pleasant weather, with temperatures in the low 80s and cool nights.
• Climate Outlook: The forecast indicates a shift towards warmer temperatures and a wetter signal for the latter part of August.
• Agricultural Impacts: Dan shares insights from recent field visits, noting issues like reduced zucchini yields due to weather conditions and the presence of aster yellows affecting various crops.
• Pest Management: Discussion on the impact of pests, particularly leaf hoppers and broad mites, on crops like potatoes and aster yellows in flowers, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and management practices.

Summary generated using Perplexity.ai

• Date: July 30th, 2024
• Hosts: Dan Fillius (ISU extension field specialist) and Dr. Justin Glisan (state climatologist)
• Historical weather:
  • On July 30, 1971, Iowa experienced unseasonably cool temperatures
  • Record low of 47°F in Des Moines; some areas reached upper 30s
• Current weather:
  • Heat dome over Iowa, dividing southwest and northeast
  • Recent squall lines and thunderstorms
  • Heat advisories in effect for parts of the state
• Short-term forecast:
  • Continued warmth and chance of thunderstorms through Thursday
  • Hotter but quieter weather expected over the weekend
  • Decorah temperatures: 87°F today, 90°F Wednesday, 82°F Thursday
• Recent weather patterns:
  • Pulse thunderstorms common
  • Below average precipitation last week, but month overall above average
  • Varying temperatures across the state
  • Fog and heavy dew reported
  • Wildfire smoke from Canada and California visible
• Long-term outlook:
  • 6-10 day precipitation near normal
  • Possibility of wet conditions during State Fair
  • Trend towards below-normal temperatures in upper Midwest
  • August outlook not yet released, but expected to show continued warmth
• Specialty crop impacts:
  • Issues with melon foliage: Alternaria, and gummy stem blight
  • Heat-related wilting in tomatoes indicating vascular wilt infections
  • Excellent garlic harvest reported
  • Late blight on tomatoes and potatoes reported in Michigan

Summary provided by Claude.ai

• Weather Station Technology:
  • Dan's personal weather station stopped working, prompting a discussion on what to look for in a new one.
  • Basic weather stations measure temperature and precipitation, but more advanced ones can measure barometric pressure, wind speed, and direction.
  • Historical context: National Weather Service coop stations have provided temperature and precipitation data for 152 years.
  • Importance of proper placement and calibration for accurate wind speed and direction measurements.
• Types of Weather Stations:
  • Wired vs. wireless weather stations.
  • Different types of anemometers: cup anemometers, wind socks, and sonic anemometers.
  • Tipping bucket rain gauges and heated rain gauges for winter measurements.
• Forecasting Capabilities:
  • Some weather stations can predict weather based on barometric pressure trends.
  • More advanced stations can use GPS data to pull forecasts from larger services.
• Community Weather Networks:
  • Discussion on the CoCoRaHS network (Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network) and its importance for monitoring weather conditions.
  • How to join CoCoRaHS: Purchase a rain gauge, register online, and report daily observations.
  • Importance of consistent data reporting for federal and state programs.
• Data Verification and Usage:
  • Personal weather stations can help verify extreme weather events, such as the 2020 derecho.
  • CoCoRaHS data is used for drought monitoring and other agricultural programs.
• Listener Engagement:
  • Encouragement for listeners in underrepresented areas like Northwest, West Central, and North Central Iowa to join CoCoRaHS.
• This podcast conversation continues with a discussion about a weather station network called NEWA (Network for Environment and Weather Applications), as discussed by Dan Fillius and Dr. Suzanne Slack.
• NEWA is a weather station network originally from Cornell University that provides weather data and applications for crop management, especially for fruit and vegetable growers.
• The network includes various apps that use weather data to help make decisions about pest control, disease management, and horticultural practices.
• NEWA integrates degree-day based and humidity-based models for predicting pest and disease issues in crops like apples, cabbage, potatoes, and tomatoes.
• Growers can join NEWA by purchasing a compatible weather station (costing between $1500-$3000) and paying an annual fee of $290 (for non-member states).
• The accuracy of predictions is best when a weather station is within about 5 kilometers of the crops.
• Anyone can access basic weather data and some predictive models on the NEWA website for free, even without owning a weather station.
• Dr. Slack is working to make Iowa a member state of NEWA by 2025, which requires six weather stations in the state (currently there are four).
• If Iowa becomes a member state, the annual fee for Iowa growers would be eliminated.
• Dr. Slack encourages interested growers to contact her for more information about joining NEWA.

• It's Dan Fillius' birthday (July 18th), and Justin Glisan provides weather information from his birth date in 1980.
• The weather forecast for the coming week is seasonal with a 30% chance of thunderstorms and temperatures in the low to mid 80s.
• They discuss recent weather events, including a heat dome and a derecho that affected the Midwest.
• An EF1 tornado moved through the Des Moines metro area, causing damage but no injuries or fatalities.
• Dan shares information about a recent Zoom call organized by the University of Wisconsin for growers to ask questions about plant diseases.
• They discuss various plant issues, including:
  • A potential tobacco mosaic virus affecting peppers and tomatoes
  • Squash bugs hatching and control methods
  • Powdery mildew prevention and treatment
  • Aster yellows in garlic crops (lack of!)
  • Garlic rust observed in Decorah
• The hosts mention that they will be away next week, but a special podcast about weather stations will be released.
• The next regular episode will be in the first week of August.

•  The hosts discuss a significant flooding event in Des Moines on July 11, 1993, which left 250,000 people without water for several day

• Current weather conditions:

• Recent flooding issues are improving, with river levels falling
  • EXCEPT: Major flooding along the Mississippi River affecting multiple locations
• The first 10 days of July have been about 4°F below average for Iowa
• Widespread rainfall occurred recently, with the state receiving about 175% of normal precipitation

• Recent weather events:

• Severe hail damage reported in North Central Iowa, affecting soybean and corn fields
• Multiple waves of thunderstorms brought heavy rainfall to parts of Iowa
• Remnants of Hurricane Beryl affected weather patterns in the Midwest

• Upcoming weather forecast:

• Temperatures expected to rise to 90°F over the weekend, then cool back to the 80s
• A gradient of temperatures predicted across Iowa in the 6-10 day outlook

• Climate and agricultural impacts:

• Cool temperatures and excess moisture are causing delays in crop growth in some areas

• Vegetable crop issues:

• Zoom call scheduled for July 15th with extension experts to discuss disease and pest management
• Various diseases reported, including black rot in cabbage and kale
• Bacterial leaf spot and Phytophthora blight affecting peppers in eastern Iowa
• Rhubarb crown rot and carrot rust fly issues reported in Tripoli
• Corn earworm severely impacting early sweet corn crops
• Lettuce drop (Sclerotinia) affecting various crops, including Napa cabbage
• Cucumber beetles causing significant crop losses in some areas
• Watermelons nearly ready for harvest in Muscatine
• Japanese beetles not significantly impacting sweet corn pollination
• Onion purple blotch observed, potentially causing storage issues
  • Conventional onion growers using weekly fungicide treatments
• Pre-emergent herbicides effectively controlling weeds in onion fields
• Discussion of how onion rot can affect different layers within the onion

1. Weather recap:
   • Recent severe weather events, including tornado warnings and heavy precipitation in parts of Iowa
   • Flooding has been an issue in northern, northwest, and parts of southern Iowa
2. Weather forecast:
   • Temperatures are expected to moderate back to normal or slightly below average in the coming week
     • The weekend looks pleasant
     • Cooler nights expected
   • Widespread rainfall is forecast for the 4th of July, with 1.5-2 inches expected in northern Iowa and 0.25-1.25 inches in southern Iowa
   • Rain chances returning Sunday night into Monday
3. Climate outlook:
   • The 6-10 day outlook shows a cool signal for the entire state and a slight dry signal for precipitation
   • The July outlook has shifted to elevated wetness, especially in northeast Iowa
4. Fourth of July weather:
   • Chances of showers and thunderstorms are expected, which is typical for the holiday
   • Fireworks may contribute to hazy and foggy conditions on July 5th, especially given the current wet conditions and high dew points
5. Agricultural updates:
   • Garlic harvest is underway
   • Black rot affecting cabbage family crops due to wet conditions
   • Pepper leaf spot issues observed
   • Earwig pressure in cabbage, strawberries
   • Sweet corn harvest beginning, with challenges due to wet fields and early corn earworm presence
     • Early arrival of corn earworm is causing challenges for sweet corn growers, especially with difficulty in applying pesticides due to wet conditions.
6. Farm recovery:
   • Update on Sweet Season Farm rebuilding after losing tunnels to wind damage
7. Cultivation techniques:
   • Discussion of stale bedding and using a field cultivator instead of a rototiller for better soil and weed management in wet conditions
8. Pest control
   • Advice on fencing corn fields to protect against raccoons
9. Hurricane Beryl - Mentioned as the earliest Category 4 (or possibly 5) hurricane on record, highlighting concerns about warm sea surface temperatures

Podcast summary generated using claude.ai and perplexity.ai

This podcast highlights the challenges farmers are facing due to recent severe weather events and provides updates on crop progress and pest issues.

Recent severe weather events:

• Significant flooding in Northwest and North Central Iowa, with some areas receiving 7-13 inches of rain over 72 hours
• Record-breaking river crests on the Big Sioux, Little Sioux, and West Fork of the Des Moines River, surpassing 1993 levels.
• Multiple funnel cloud sightings and weak tornadoes across the state.
  • Explanation of funnel cloud formation due to strong updrafts and horizontal spin from outflow boundaries
• Extreme heat, with very high overnight temperatures in the 80s overnight in some areas.

Historical weather event:

• On June 27, 1953, an F5 tornado struck Cass and Adair counties, killing one person and injuring two others

The weather forecast includes:

• • Chances of showers and thunderstorms in the coming days.
  • A shift towards more moderate temperatures, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the mid-60s expected for Central Iowa, though still above average.
  • Continued elevated probability of wetter conditions.

Climate forecast:

• Temperatures trending towards normal for early July
• Elevated chances of wetter conditions in the 6-10 and 8-14 day outlooks

Crop updates:

1. • Some farmers experienced hail damage to tomatoes, peppers, and sweet corn.
   • The first sweet corn of the season was harvested on June 24th using special early-season growing techniques.
   • Japanese beetles are causing issues for some crops, particularly sweet corn.
   • Corn earworms and squash vine borers are also active.

Podcast summary created using Claude.ai and Perplexity.ai

•Historical weather note:

• Unusually cool weather and frost reported in parts of Iowa on June 21-22, 1902.

• Recent weather highlights:

• Southeast Iowa has been experiencing dryness, reflected in the drought monitor.
• Northern Iowa has received about 2 inches of rain in the last two weeks.
• High wind events caused damage to greenhouses and tunnels in northeastern Iowa.

• Weather forecast:

• Unsettled pattern with chances of showers and thunderstorms.
• Temperatures in the 90s expected early next week.
• Northern Iowa may see 3-5 inches of rain in the next 36 hours.
• At least an inch of rain expected statewide.

• Recent weather events:

• Dryness in southeastern Iowa
• High wind events in northeastern Iowa damaging farm structures
• Large hail in western Iowa

• Climate outlook:

• Warmer than average temperatures predicted for the next 6-14 days and through September.
• Mixed precipitation signals: wetter in short-term
• July may end up being downgraded to "equal chances"

• Crop and pest updates:

• Japanese beetles are starting to appear.
• Powdery mildew affecting peas.
• Black raspberries are highly productive this year.
• Strawberry season is ending; time for field renovation.
• Downy mildew affecting some sunflowers
• Leaf hoppers causing damage to various crops
• Sweet corn expected around second week of July for many growers
• Garlic scapes affected by anthracnose
• Imported cabbage worm moths and damage observed on brassicas.
• Sap beetles seen in peonies and Napa cabbage.

• Irrigation systems are being set up due to drier conditions and warmer forecasts.

Summary created using Claude.ai and Perplexity.ai

• Iowa experienced one of the wettest meteorological springs on record for most of Iowa  (March-May 2024), ending a long drought that had persisted since 2020.
  • It was the first time since June 2020 that there was no drought anywhere in Iowa, with only abnormally dry conditions remaining in some areas.
• Precipitation levels were in the top 10 wettest on record for 7 out of 9 climate divisions in Iowa.
• The wet spring helped replenish soil moisture, stream flows, and shallow aquifers, though deeper aquifers will take years to fully recover.
• Growing degree days were above average while stress degree days (temperatures above 86°F) were slightly below average, providing favorable conditions for plant growth.
• The last frost occurred around late April in central Iowa, allowing an extended spring growing season.
• Vegetable growers reported good germination and growth without needing to irrigate due to the ample rainfall.
• However, some growers fell behind on transplanting starts and succession plantings due to the wet fields.
• Succession planting of crops like cucumbers, zucchini, and radishes was impacted by the delays.
• Overall, it was described as an archetypal, pleasant spring after coming out of a multi-year drought.

Summarized using claude.ai and perplexity.ai

We discussed the rare occurrence of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) being visible in central parts of the United States, including Iowa and Missouri on May 10-11, 2024. 

• The Northern Lights were visible much farther south than usual, including central Missouri, due to a powerful G5 class geomagnetic storm caused by coronal mass ejections and solar flares from the Sun
• Justin, vividly recalls seeing the Aurora in Columbia, Missouri, around 20 years ago during another strong geomagnetic storm, describing it as brighter than the ones he witnessed in Fairbanks, Alaska
• The hosts explain how the different colors (green from nitrogen, pink from oxygen) are produced by the interaction of charged particles with gases in the Earth's atmosphere
• They discuss the potential impacts of such space weather events on GPS, telecommunications, and electrical grids, necessitating precautionary measures like shutting down satellites and power grids
• There were some agricultural impacts reported, like disrupted GPS on farm equipment during the planting season.
• The conversation also touches upon the hosts' humorous anecdotes and pop culture references related to the Northern Lights phenomenon.

Podcast summary generated using claude.ai and perplexity.ai

• The hosts discussed the weather history of Iowa in 1951, which saw unusually heavy precipitation after a dry start to the year, echoing the current wet conditions in the state.
• They provided a forecast for the coming week, predicting 1-2 inches of rainfall from thunderstorms across Iowa, with temperatures in the low 80s during the day and low 60s overnight. 
• The long-range outlooks showed a warm signal for the next 6-10 days, followed by a cooler period in the 8-14 day range, with near-normal precipitation expected. 

• They discussed a derecho (widespread, long-lived wind storm) that impacted Iowa on the previous Thursday night/Friday morning, causing damage from high winds and tornadoes.
• The hosts provided detailed explanations of derechos, including their definition, types (progressive vs. serial), and the atmospheric conditions that lead to such events.
• The recent derecho in Iowa had tornadoes and high winds concentrated in the central and eastern parts of the state, causing damage to structures, trees, and outbuildings.
• The hosts provided a comprehensive explanation of derechos, which are widespread, long-lived wind storms. Key points:

• • A derecho must travel at least 400 miles, be at least 60 miles wide, and have a majority of wind gusts 58 mph or greater within that swath. 
  • There are two types: progressive derechos (like August 2020) and serial/cold front-driven derechos (like December 2021 and the recent event).
  • The December 2021 derecho had 63 tornadoes and exceptionally strong non-thunderstorm gradient winds due to a steep pressure gradient between a low and high pressure system.

• They also discussed the impact of the recent heavy rains on field tiles, ponding, and the potential for replenishing irrigation ponds.
• Impacts on specialty crops like high insect pressure from overwintered pests, strawberry peak, tomato spotted wilt virus found in greenhouse marigolds.
• Some vegetable growers are facing challenges getting liability insurance coverage for leafy greens production due to recent foodborne illness outbreaks.

Summary generated using claude.ai and perplexity.ai

• Justin Glisan, the state climatologist, provides updates on the current and upcoming weather forecasts, including precipitation totals, severe weather risks, and temperature outlooks for the next week.
• Madelynn Wuestenberg shares the Climate Prediction Center's forecasts for temperature and precipitation over different time periods, indicating near-normal conditions for Iowa in the short term.
• The drought situation in Iowa has significantly improved, with 66% of the state now out of drought conditions and only 20% experiencing moderate drought (D1)
• Dan Fillius discusses the impacts of the wet weather on weed control, highlighting the effectiveness of pre-emergent herbicides for some growers and the challenges of cultivation due to frequent rains.
• The conversation also touches on pest management, with Dan providing advice on identifying and controlling thrips and spider mites.
• Focused on the May 21st, 2024 tornado outbreak in Iowa that caused significant damage, especially in Greenfield where an EF3 or potentially EF4/EF5 tornado struck
• Justin and Dan commend the National Weather Service for their efforts in communicating severe weather warnings and express gratitude for Justin's timely email updates during the recent tornado event.
• Justin Glisan provided details on:
  • The setup that led to the outbreak
  • Number of tornado reports
  • Widespread impacts of hail, straight-line winds, heavy rainfall
  • the advanced forecasting capabilities that allowed warnings of the severe weather risk

Key points:

• Madelynn found a cicada in her driveway after returning from Missouri and sent a photo to an entomologist, who was excited as it could be a periodical cicada. 
• On May 16, 1997, Sioux City broke both its record high (91°F) and record low (33°F) temperatures for that date, which is highly unusual. 
• The upcoming week's forecast shows potential for wet weather, especially days 4-6, with around 1 inch of rain expected across most of Iowa. Next week should be warmer than average
• The 8-14 day climate outlook indicates slightly cooler than normal temperatures but nothing extremely cold. Normal temps for this time of year are highs of 72 and lows of 52.
• Recent rains have helped improve drought conditions in Iowa, with no more extreme drought (D3) remaining as of the latest update.
• Planting progress for crops is behind last year's pace but on track with 2015-2018 and ahead of 2022. 
• They discussed reasons why a rain system dissipated around I-35 in central Iowa the previous night, likely due to dry air
• Justin explained how meteorologists use models like the High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) to analyze small-scale weather features. 
• Dan mentioned some phenological observations like winter rye heading out 1-2 weeks early this year.
• They discussed the difference between "equal chances" and "near normal" forecast terminology used by the Climate Prediction Center.

Summary generated using combination of Claude.ai and Perplexity.ai

Podcast summary generated using Claude.ai and Perplexity.ai

The conversation today covers weather forecasting challenges, severe weather impacts on crops, insect pest management for specialty crops like onions, and the unique biology and emergence patterns of the periodical cicadas in 2024.

1. A discussion of Iowa's weather history, including a deadly tornado outbreak in 1918 that caused significant damage and casualties in eastern and northeastern parts of the state. 
2. A forecast for cooler temperatures and less active weather over the next few days, followed by warmer temperatures and increased rainfall chances in mid-May, which is typical for Iowa's wet season. The chances of a late frost after the next couple of nights are considered very low based on climate outlooks and soil moisture conditions. 
3. Impacts of recent severe weather like high winds, hail, and heavy rainfall on specialty crops like cover crops, onions, and weed pressure.
4. An interview with Zach Schumm from the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic at Iowa State University, who shares insights about the periodical cicadas, how to identify them, and the rarity of both broods emerging together this year across a few counties in Illinois.
5. Details on the upcoming emergence of periodical cicadas in Iowa (Brood XIII and Brood XIX), expected in late May or early June. The 13-year brood will appear in southeastern Iowa, while the 17-year brood will be seen in eastern Iowa along rivers and forests. Details are provided on their life cycle, synchronization, and minimal impact on plants as adults with functional mouthparts. 
6. Information on submitting plant and insect samples to the Iowa State University Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic (PIDC) for identification and diagnosis, including the option to send insect photos for free identification.

Summary provided by Claude.ai

- There was some light late-season snow in northeastern Iowa on May 1, 1997, though only trace amounts for most areas.

- The upcoming week's forecast called for an active storm track with 1.5-3 inches of rain expected across the state, especially in eastern Iowa. Strong thunderstorms and hail were also concerns.

- The previous week saw heavy rainfall of 2-4 inches statewide, with higher amounts in southeast Iowa, along with some severe weather and strong tornadoes in western Iowa that caused damage.

- Looking ahead, warmer than average temperatures were expected for the summer as an El Niño pattern transitions to a potential La Niña. Soil moisture levels would influence whether the warmth feels more extreme or mitigated.

- They discussed how growers can interpret the U.S. Drought Monitor maps and drought conditions at different scales, from statewide down to an individual farm. Local input from growers on impacts helps refine the maps.

- Tiling and other agricultural practices may influence how quickly drought develops in soils, though more research is needed on the relationship.

Episode Summary

1. Historical Lightning Incident:

   • In 1902, a resident of Creston, Iowa, was struck by lightning twice during the same storm.
   • Remarkably, he survived both strikes.
   • The first lightning strike rendered him unconscious, but he woke up due to the ensuing heavy rainfall and continued his journey home, where he was struck a second time.

2. Forecast for Iowa:

   • The forecast indicates an active jet stream pulling low pressures across the state.
   • Between now and Sunday, there’s a potential for severe weather in portions of Iowa, including hail, high winds, and possibly tornadoes.
   • Widespread rainfall is expected, with a potential for 2 to 4 inches across the state.
   • Southeast Iowa may see the highest rainfall totals, while eastern Iowa could receive around 2 inches.
   • The temperature in Iowa for April is near normal but slightly warmer.
   • Warmer air masses are expected due to the Gulf being wide open for moisture influx.
   • Dew points will likely be in the 50s and 60s, given the abundant moisture.
   • While not super uncomfortable, it might feel a little sticky as it gets warmer, especially in the absence of rain. 

3. Severe Weather Potential:

   • The convective outlook indicates a slight risk statewide for severe weather, including hail, wind, and potentially tornadoes.
   • Western Iowa is at an enhanced risk, depending on whether the sky clears during the day.
   • The timing of clearing skies and the formation of a dry slot play a crucial role in severe weather development.
   • Sunshine can warm the surface, create instability, and lead to thunderstorms with large hail and tornado potential.

4. Rooting for Clearing Skies?:

   • If you’re a grower with crops to care for, you might want to root for clearing skies.
   • However, striking a balance is essential—clearing skies without breaking the cap (which maintains instability) is ideal.
   • The availability of convective potential energy (CAPE) determines the severity of thunderstorms.

5. Climate Outlook:

   • The next couple of weeks show signals for warmth and wetness, which is beneficial for restoring soil moisture.
   • While there has been above-average precipitation in 2024, it’s not enough to fully overcome the 3-4 year deficits caused by drought.
   • The wet signal is good for planting and crop progress but may limit fieldwork due to excess moisture.
   • Looking ahead, there are still signals for heat and equal chances of precipitation during the summer.

6. Soil Loss and Tillage:

   • Heavy rains (2 to 4 inches) can lead to soil loss, so land management practices like reducing tillage are important to consider.
   • For growers of annual vegetables, tillage remains common, but some are exploring no-till techniques.

7. Specialty Crops:

   • Sweet corn is on track for a pre-4th of July harvest.
   • Overwintered cilantro and spinach are bolting, and you’re experimenting with different varieties.
   • Overwintered Cut flowers like snapdragons, foxgloves, and bupleurum are close to blooming, benefiting from the warmth and moisture.
   • Clovergold Flower Farm is using spring annual weeds like penny cress as fillers in bouquets—they add greenery and white flowers.

8. Fruit Crops:

   • Strawberry King blooms are appearing on some varieties. The “king blooms” are the largest and the first to open.
   • Unfortunately, they got damaged by cold temperatures, resulting in a black center and no fruit development.
   • However, the next round of flowers (bright green) looks promising for a good crop, albeit with decreased yield due to the initial damage.
   • Growers are surprised at how well the grapes are looking despite challenges.

9. Asparagus Incident:

   • A grower in Jasper County had an incident with herbicide spraying.
   • The neighbor sprayed 2,4-D on a windy day, but the grower covered everything with frost fabric except for the asparagus.
   • The asparagus spears that were already up showed a classic symptom of herbicide contact (a crooked shape).
   • The grower removed those affected spears, and the next round of asparagus is unaffected.

10. Aster Yellows Phytoplasma - Comparison to 2012:

    • In 2012, many growers faced issues with Aster yellows phytoplasma on garlic.
    • The disease is spread by the Aster Leaf Hopper coming from the South.

11. Comparison to 2012 Drought:

    • While it’s challenging to make an exact comparison, there are echoes this year of certain elements of the 2012 drought.
    • The intensity of the 2012 second wave of drought was significant.
    • The current drought is structurally different but still poses challenges.

12. Growing Degree Days (GDD):

    • By April 1st, the accumulation of growing degree days (GDD) was almost 400 in 2012.
    • This year, we are closer to 200 GDD, indicating slower progress.
    • Leafhoppers appeared earlier than usual in spring 2012 and affected garlic and small grains.

13. Aster Yellows Phytoplasma:

    • Aster yellows is caused by a phytoplasma and affects various plants, including garlic.
    • Leafhoppers transmit the phytoplasma from infected plants to healthy ones.
    • Symptoms include early yellowing of garlic leaves.
    • Roguing out affected plants is essential to prevent further spread.

14. Phytoplasmas:

    • Phytoplasmas are derived from bacteria but behave like parasites.
    • They cannot live independently and rely on vectors (like leafhoppers) for transmission.

• Madelynn Wuestenberg shares her educational background and career passion in agricultural meteorology.
• Justin Glisan discusses Iowa weather history and forecast, mentioning late-season snowstorms and active storm track.

• Cold temperatures forecasted for Northern Iowa, potentially impacting crop growth.
• Glisan and Dan discuss how wet soils can moderate temperature extremes
• Justin explains how wet soils can lead to a rebound or adjustment in temperature forecasts
• Dan Fillius provides updates on cold-sensitive crops like tomatoes, onions, and asparagus.
• Asparagus harvest is estimated to be a week ahead of schedule.

• Justin Glisan notes varied rainfall across Iowa, with some areas receiving over 2 inches and others less than expected.
• Justin Glisan highlights the complex balancing act between short-term precipitation improvements and long-term drought deficits in Iowa.
• Glisan notes that areas with 300-500% of normal precipitation in the past week may be key to holding off drought expansion and intensification.
• Dan Fillius and guests discuss severe weather in Iowa, including tornadoes and hail.
• Guests share their experiences with severe weather, including a grower in Dallas center who had a horse barn turned over by a tornado.
• Glisan and Dan discuss the timing of planting sweet corn, with  planting too early can lead to frost damage.
• Dan explains that inducing frost damage through flame weeding can delay sweet corn harvest by 7-10 days in organic production.

• Meteorologists discuss seasonal outlook as El Niño transitions to La Niña.
• Justin Glisan explains how El Niño and La Niña impact US weather patterns.
• Warm signal in summer may be seen more in warmer lows, causing temperature stress for plants.
• the relationship between cotton and corn belts during El Niño events.
• Glisan and Dan discuss drought and its effects on crops, with Glisan mentioning a 1993-like event as one potential solution, but one that would have negative consequences.
• Madelynn Wuestenberg and Dan Fillius discuss the impact of warm nights on plant growth, particularly for fruiting crops like tomatoes and peppers.
• Growers can select for tomato varieties bred for hot climates, such as Hot Set tomatoes, to reduce flower abortion at high temperatures.

Dan Fillius, Justin Glisan, and special guest Madelynn Wuestenberg discuss Iowa's weather history, including infamous tornado outbreaks and recent severe weather events, and provide an overview of the coming week's weather forecast.  In the second segment, the speakers discussed the potential for severe weather in the Midwest, particularly during the spring season, and the role of wind in these events. In the third segment, the speakers discussed the recent solar eclipse's effects on weather, and the phenomenon of temperature inversions. Finally, they covered topics such as soil temperature sensors, meteorological events' effects on soil temperatures, and the seven Sundays of rain following Easter...Is it a phenomenon? 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ivgt1PXlt8OJUIRaB0u5zrQ-0vibY-YldQMVFlNI1bM/edit?usp=sharing

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