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Missouri extreme heat and drought

Overview

In September 2026, Missouri experienced its warmest September on record, with a statewide average temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This surpassed the previous record of 74.8 degrees established in 1931.

The extreme heat was most concentrated in southern and southwestern Missouri, where temperatures in locations such as Marshfield and Licking reached 106 degrees on September 6. This heat coincided with widespread drought conditions in the southern portions of the state, creating a climatic split with northern Missouri, which saw above-average rainfall.

These conditions have impacted the agricultural sector. While northern row-crop farmers have made progress with corn and soybean harvests, soybean yields may have decreased due to dryness. Conversely, the heat and drought have negatively affected livestock production, following a volatile season that began with heavy spring rains that delayed planting in regions like Pettis County.

Entities

Colorado · University of Missouri Extension · Missouri · National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration · National Centers for Environmental Information

Timeline

  1. [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    Missouri endures record September heat and drought

    Missouri recorded its warmest September on record in 2026, causing a split between northern rainfall and southern drought that has impacted livestock and soybean yields.

  2. [CULTURE] 4 sources
    Missouri and Colorado historical September temperature rankings

    Historical data from the National Centers for Environmental Information ranks the coldest Septembers in Missouri and Colorado since 1895.

Sources

abc17news.com · kesq.com · krdo.com · kttn.com · localnews8.com