DELMARVA — The Eastern Shore is drying out following nearly 2 days of punishing rainfall, as a slow-moving storm system soaked Accomack County with more than 6 inches of rain before pushing south into northeastern North Carolina. Near Exmore, totals topped 4 inches, while Lower Northampton County received 1 to 2 inches. Flood warnings for both Accomack and Northampton counties expired at midnight Thursday.
The drought picture improved alongside the rainfall totals. The U.S. Drought Monitor upgraded the region from extreme drought to abnormally dry, though forecasters note the Shore still trails normal yearly rainfall totals by 1 to 3 inches.
Markets
At Thursday’s close, September corn settled at $4.64/bu, up 2 cents. August soybeans finished at $12.37½/bu, gaining 4½ cents. September Chicago wheat dropped 9½ cents to close at $6.96¼/bu. August live cattle settled at $225.40, up $2.20. August lean hogs closed at $102.15.
Locally, Laurel Grain Company in Laurel is bidding $5.09/bu for September corn delivery. November soybeans are bid at $11.94/bu.
Forecast
Going forward, only scattered showers are expected, with temperatures staying below 80°F. Thursday evening stays clear with a low of 61°F. Friday brings mostly sunny skies and a high of 81°F with light easterly winds, offering good fieldwork conditions.
This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, July 23, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.
