corn sweat
Coverage of corn sweat in the Nexus archive.
- Can ‘corn sweat’ worsen heat waves?
Evapotranspiration from corn, referred to as 'corn sweat,' can increase air moisture during heat waves, raising dew points and humidity. A 2011 study found agricultural areas in the Midwest experienced a 40% rise in moisture levels during daytime, with Minnesota—ranked fifth in corn and soybean production—highlighted as a region with abundant crop 'sweat.'
- ‘Extreme Heat’ To Hit Chicago Starting Monday, Bringing Temperatures Near 100 Degrees, National Weather Service Says
Chicago will experience extreme heat from Monday through Wednesday, with temperatures near 100 degrees and heat indices reaching 105 due to high pressure and humidity. The National Weather Service warns of dangerous conditions, urging residents to stay indoors and hydrated. Cooling centers are open in city-operated buildings.
- After Soggy June, Get Ready For ‘Corn Sweat’ Summer As Heat Wave Approaches
Chicago and Illinois are experiencing increased humidity due to 'corn sweat,' a phenomenon where cornfields release 4,000 gallons of water daily through evapotranspiration. This process raises heat indices near 100°F as temperatures rise into the 90s, with Illinois corn crops releasing 35 billion gallons of water daily. Heavy June rainfall in northern Illinois, combined with a heat wave, has intensified the effect early this summer.