Missouri endures record September heat and drought

Missouri experienced its warmest September on record in 2026, with the statewide average temperature reaching 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This surpassed the previous record of 74.8 degrees set in 1931. The extreme heat was most intense in southern and southwestern Missouri, where locations such as Marshfield and Licking reached 106 degrees on September 6.

While northern Missouri, including Trenton, saw above-average rainfall, southern portions of the state faced widespread drought conditions. This climatic split has significantly impacted the agricultural sector. According to the Missouri Farm Bureau, row-crop farmers in the northern half of the state have made steady progress with corn and soybean harvests, though soybean yields may have decreased due to dryness in August and September.

In contrast, the heat and drought have negatively affected livestock production. The season was marked by extreme volatility, following a spring characterized by heavy rains that delayed planting in several regions, including Pettis County.