Corn Sweat Midwest Humidity: For those living in the Midwest, sticky, humid summers are nothing new. But over the past few decades, this seasonal discomfort has become more pronounced, with locals increasingly talking about the phenomenon known as “corn sweat.” As fields of corn work to cool themselves, they release significant amounts of water vapor into the air, adding to the already high levels of humidity. This year, with climate change intensifying weather patterns, the sticky heat has reached new heights, leaving many to wonder just how much worse it can get.
What Is Corn Sweat? Understanding the Humidity Spike
The term “corn sweat” refers to the process of evapotranspiration, where plants take up water from the soil through their roots and release it into the air as water vapor. This is not just a quirky regional phenomenon but a significant contributor to the Midwest’s humidity levels. As temperatures rise, especially in late summer, corn plants work overtime to stay cool, pumping out moisture that adds to the stifling atmosphere.
Nebraska-based meteorologist and climatologist Martha Shulski explains that corn sweat is “something that locals very much know about,” particularly during late summer when the humidity spikes. This process is most intense in July, as noted by Dennis Todey, director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Midwest Climate Hub. “Corn does most of its evapotranspiration in July rather than August,” he says.
Climate Change and Corn Sweat: A Worsening Cycle
The relationship between corn sweat and climate change is a concerning one. As global temperatures rise, so do nighttime temperatures, creating conditions where the atmosphere can hold more moisture. This increase in atmospheric moisture means that the effects of corn sweat are amplified, contributing to higher humidity levels and more severe heat stress for those living in the region.
Lew Ziska, an associate professor of environmental health sciences at Columbia University, has studied the effects of climate change on crops extensively. He states, “Warmer conditions mean more transpiration.” In other words, as the climate warms, corn plants—and all plants, for that matter—are forced to release even more moisture into the air as they try to cool themselves.
The Role of Industrial Agriculture: More Corn, More Sweat
Climate change isn’t the only factor at play. The steady expansion of industrial agriculture, driven by the demand for biofuels like ethanol, has led to an increase in the total acreage of corn being planted, particularly in northern states where corn was not traditionally grown. According to Ziska, “It shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that it’s been getting hotter.” Over 40% of the corn grown in the U.S. is now used for ethanol production, which is eventually consumed by cars and sometimes even planes.
The Renewable Fuels Association reports that global production of ethanol has been steadily increasing, barring a brief dip during the COVID-19 pandemic. This demand means more corn fields, more evapotranspiration, and inevitably, more humidity.
Corn Sweat and Its Impact on Human Health and Comfort
The increased humidity resulting from corn sweat isn’t just an inconvenience; it poses real health risks. High humidity levels make it more difficult for the human body to cool itself through sweating. When sweat doesn’t evaporate, body temperatures can rise to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The problem is compounded by warmer nights, which are becoming more common as a result of climate change. When temperatures don’t drop sufficiently overnight, the body doesn’t get a chance to cool down, leading to cumulative heat stress. This can be especially dangerous for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Adapting to the New Normal: What Can Be Done?
With corn sweat and climate change contributing to increasingly humid and uncomfortable summers in the Midwest, what can be done to mitigate these effects? The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Midwest Climate Hub, led by Dennis Todey, is working to help producers adapt to these changing conditions. Strategies include adjusting planting schedules and exploring crop varieties that are better suited to warmer, more humid climates.
For the general public, awareness and preparation are key. Understanding the role of corn sweat in local weather patterns can help residents anticipate and cope with the extreme conditions. Simple measures like staying hydrated, seeking air-conditioned environments during heat waves, and monitoring local weather reports for heat advisories can make a significant difference.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead to a Hotter, Stickier Future
As climate change continues to reshape our environment, phenomena like corn sweat are likely to become more pronounced, adding to the challenges faced by those living in the Midwest. The combination of rising global temperatures, increased industrial agriculture, and changing weather patterns means that summers will likely get even stickier and more uncomfortable in the years to come.
While efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change are critical on a global scale, understanding local phenomena like corn sweat and their impact on our daily lives is equally important. By staying informed and prepared, we can better navigate the sticky, humid summers that have become a hallmark of life in the Midwest.
