"Abnormally dry conditions and pockets of moderate drought have spread over parts of the U.S. Midwest in the past week, including in the key crop state of Iowa, according to a report issued on Thursday."

"The U.S. Drought Monitor, issued weekly by state and federal climate experts, said more than 60 percent of Iowa was suffering from moderate drought, up from 35 percent a week earlier.

It said 22 percent of the state was in severe drought, compared with nil a week ago.

Overall, 25 percent of the Midwest, which also includes the key farm states of Illinois, Missouri and Minnesota, was in at least moderate drought, up from just 8 percent a week earlier, the report said."

Carey Gillam reports for Reuters August 30, 2013. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Soybeans Drop as Rain Forecasts for Midwest Ease Yield Concern" (Bloomberg) [3]