Weather forecasts are favoring Midwest harvest conditions, but slow wheat establishment in the Plains, according to a new mid-range forecast.

The latest 16-30 day temperature outlook from MDA EarthSat Weather sees warmer weather across the Plains, but cooler conditions in the eastern half of the country, including the Midwest, Delta, and Southeast.

"The cool weather will slow wheat establishment, but will favor drydown of corn and soybeans," says Kyle Tapley, MDA EarthSat meteorologist.

Drier conditions are forecast during the 16-30 day period across the central Plains and most of the Midwest and Delta.

"Below normal precipitation is expected across most of the Plains wheat belt, which will maintain severe moisture shortages and extreme long-term drought in most areas," Tapley says.

"This will continue to stress establishment of the winter wheat crop and will make it more susceptible to winterkill threats this winter.

"Below normal precipitation across the western Midwest will favor corn and soybean harvesting. Near normal rainfall across the Delta and eastern Midwest will limit harvest delays."

In the near-term, Dow Jones reports expectations for "harvest disruptions in the eastern Midwest, a continued variable trend in wheat areas, possible storm damage to crops in the southeastern U.S."

Rain and strong winds this week are bringing harvest delays, as well as crop lodging, in Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. "The area may see additional rain chances next Tuesday into Wednesday. There are no significant harvest concerns through western growing areas," Dow Jones reported.