Drought conditions in the Midwest are “almost historic” with 38 percent of the nation’s corn crop now rated poor to very poor, according to USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey.

“That 38% represents the highest amount of U.S. corn rated poor to very poor since the end of the 1988 growing season,” said Rippey. “We now see in 13 of the 18 major production states in the U.S., at least one quarter of the corn crop rated poor to very poor.” Leading the pack in low ratings are Kentucky at 77%, Missouri 72%, and Indiana 71% poor to very poor according to the latest USDA crop progress report. At least half the soybean crop in those states is also rated poor or worse.

Rippey says both of the crops are progressing along faster than normal in the hot, dry weather, which is a very bad thing right now.