The Forecast from the Road
Matt Reardon breaks down how a stalled jet stream deepened Illinois’ drought and why this weekend’s pattern shift could bring long-awaited rain.
Blue Skies, Crunchy Lawns, and a Familiar Forecast
September’s warm, dry stretch is raising fire risks in Illinois fields while Mississippi River levels drop and fall weather shifts take shape—read the full weather update from Matt Reardon.
Fall Arrives Early Across Midwest
Matt Reardon’s latest weather outlook notes that cooler nights bring an early taste of fall, easing heat stress but reducing much-needed rainfall for crops.
Midwest Crops Thrive While the Tropics Stir
From drought-stressed to waterlogged to flourishing, Illinois crops reflect a wide range of conditions as Matt Reardon also looks at Texas floods, an anticipated busy hurricane outlook, and July’s forecast outlook.
Ridge Riding Thunderstorms Stare Down the Midwest
After a spring marked by extreme weather, Matt Reardon shares how potential storms, summer heat, and some meteorological history could shape the forecast in the weeks to come.
A Tale of Two Illinois: Diverging Rainfall Needs as Summer Approaches
With southern Illinois battling wet field conditions and northern Illinois facing increasing dryness, timely weather in the weeks ahead will be critical as farmers work to finish planting and manage rising drought concerns heading into June.
March’s Severe Weather Sets the Tone for an Active Spring in Illinois
As planting season unfolds, Illinois farmers face an unpredictable weather outlook following a record-setting March of severe storms. With soil moisture deficits in some areas and the potential for more severe weather in April and May, farmers should prepare for narrow planting windows if the stormy pattern persists.
Autumn Awaits: Football, Frost, and Forecasts in Illinois
Matt Reardon breaks down the fall forecast, explaining when frost typically arrives in Illinois. He also discusses cooler conditions in the near term and a possible warming trend heading into the harvest season.
May Weather Update: Heavy Rains and a Slow Start
Matt Reardon from Nutrien Ag provides a May weather update, highlighting the frequent rainfall in Illinois that has increased soil moisture and alleviated drought concerns. He also discusses the long-range forecast, indicating the potential for continued wet conditions through the end of May and a warmer, stormy summer ahead.
April Weather Outlook: A Late Freeze, Rainfall Chances, La Niña Transition & More
In his April weather outlook, Matt Reardon from Nutrien Ag reports increasing soil temperatures and reviews median frost and freeze dates throughout IL. He also discusses the transition from El Niño to La Niña and its potential impact on summer rainfall patterns.
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