Heatwave Devastates Midwest Cattle: Thousands Reported Dead Amid Soaring Temperatures

A record-breaking heatwave in the Midwest this summer has left a tragic mark on the cattle industry, particularly in Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas. State officials disclosed that during July, the lethal combination of heat and humidity may have claimed the lives of hundreds to thousands of cattle.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources revealed an alarming request to dispose of around 370 cows that succumbed to the heat in western Iowa. An even graver report from the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association suggests a staggering 4,000 cattle might have perished statewide. The National Weather Service recorded a heat index of 117 degrees in Carroll, Iowa, on July 28, exemplifying the extremities faced by the livestock.

Despite Iowa’s immense cattle population, with 630,000 head as of July 1, these abrupt deaths are disconcerting. Kansas too, has been hit hard, with the state recording at least 50 cattle deaths in July, and even more devastating numbers from a heat event in June of the previous year.

Farmers and producers are working tirelessly, taking preventive measures like relocating cattle to shaded pens and using fans and misters to keep them cool. The Kansas State University has introduced the Kansas Mesonet, a tool to monitor and forecast animal comfort levels.

This disaster occurs amidst the backdrop of sky-high cattle prices, which has many in the industry on edge. Nebraska’s Michael J. Flood, in response to the tragedy, has written to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, urging quick action from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Farm Service Administration. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen echoed this sentiment, seeking immediate payments to affected producers.

The FSA’s Livestock Indemnity Program currently covers up to 75% of an animal’s value. Affected producers must file an “Application for Payment” by October 1.

This calamity is foreseen to lower cattle numbers heading for processing. Moreover, the ongoing severe droughts in the Western U.S. and escalating feed costs are exacerbating the situation, with a 3% decline in cows and heifers producing calves this year.