• 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.

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