Expect warmer than average temperatures over western South Dakota in April, with equal chances of warmer, cooler or near average for the eastern region, says Laura Edwards, South Dakota State University Extension climate field specialist.

"For the rest of the spring and summer, there is increasing likelihood of warmer than average temperatures in the Northern Plains and across the lower 48 states," Edwards said. "The outlooks have been consistent in indicating warmer than average temperatures throughout the growing season."

The pattern of drier weather to the northeast and wetter weather to the south-southwest is projected to continue, she says.

Clouds build over the prairie on a warm spring day.

"The summer season is less clear, as climate models are often challenged with our typical thunderstorms that can bring locally intense rainfall," Edwards says. "In addition, the timing of a transition between our current strong El Nino and the potential of La Nina can be difficult."

Overall, the general outlook of warmer than average temperatures in our region could be good news for row crops, as a few extra Growing Degree Days and warm weather could help in increasing our yield potential, especially for corn, Edwards says.

"Additionally, we could benefit from an extended growing season, if we are fortunate enough to have an early spring frost date and/or a late fall frost," she explained.

On the other hand, additional heat during the growing season could add some stress in areas where we are moisture-limited. "This might bring on some short-term or moderate drought concerns at some point in the growing season," she says.

In areas that are starting out slightly dry, such as in the north central and northeast, timely rainfall could be more important this year.

2015 started out very dry as well, with record dry conditions statewide for January through March.

"The growing season was productive as far as grain yields go, so it is too early to say what will happen this year for sure," she says. "We are starting out warmer than usual, both with air temperatures and soil temperatures, but hopefully that works to our benefit as the busy spring farming season is upon us."

Source: SDSU Extension Service