What Is El Niño Weather Pattern and How Could It Impact Iowa Farmers in 2026?

Young corn crop growing in an Iowa field under storm clouds as El Niño weather patterns bring increased rainfall and cooler temperatures to the Midwest.

El Niño is a climate pattern caused by warmer-than-normal water temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. Although it develops thousands of miles from Iowa, it can influence weather across the Midwest. For Iowa farmers, El Niño often means cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, and wetter harvest conditions. Additional moisture can support crop growth. However, too much rain […]