If you’ve been feeling extra sweaty in the northern regions of the United States, you’re not alone. The recent surge of extreme heat and humidity in the Midwest and Northeast has left many residents feeling uncomfortable. The week of June 21 saw a record-breaking wave of humidity across nearly 40 states, with levels that were described as feeling “like a tropical rainforest” according to data from The Washington Post and ECMWF, a global weather forecasting model. But what exactly is causing all this humidity?
Evaporation from rainfall, waterways, and soil adds water vapor to the air, increasing absolute humidity levels. However, another significant contributor to humidity levels is the process of transpiration, where water evaporates from inside a plant. One of the main culprits of transpiration is corn, hence the term “corn sweat” that has been circulating recently.
Corn sweat refers to the process of corn plants releasing water vapor into the air through pores in their leaves. In essence, the corn is “sweating” to cool itself down, similar to how humans sweat. In regions where a large amount of corn is grown, such as the Midwest’s “corn belt,” the collective transpiration from corn plants can impact humidity levels to some extent.
According to the USDA, over 95 million acres of corn were planted in the United States this year. One acre of corn can release 3,000 to 4,000 gallons of water vapor into the air daily, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. This significant amount of corn sweat can contribute to the overall humidity in the region.
We spoke to Rob Shenot, an expert corn farmer from Shenot Farm, who shed light on the effects of corn sweat. Shenot explained that the density and height of corn plants can affect humidity levels. Corn is planted at a high density per acre and grows tall, trapping heat and moisture. As the corn matures, the transpiration rate decreases. Shenot also mentioned that harvesting corn early in the morning helps maintain the sugar content in the ears and provides comfort for farmers working in the heat.
Late July to early August marks the peak growing season for corn, so the humidity levels are currently at their highest due to corn sweat. While Shenot noted that Western Pennsylvania may not experience significant weather differences from corn, regions like the Midwest, where corn fields span square miles, may notice a more pronounced impact on humidity.
The effects of corn sweat can make it harder for the body to regulate core temperature and prevent heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, particularly in areas closer to corn crops. It’s important to follow safety guidelines during extreme heat waves and consider no-cook recipes to avoid unnecessary heat exposure in the kitchen. Stay safe and stay cool during the hot and humid summer days influenced by corn sweat. The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and it is essential to prioritize mental health in the workplace. A healthy workplace includes an environment that supports the mental health and well-being of employees. Employers have a responsibility to create a positive work culture that promotes mental health and provides resources for employees to maintain their mental well-being.
Mental health in the workplace is crucial because it can have a significant impact on employee productivity, job satisfaction, and overall performance. When employees are mentally healthy, they are more engaged, motivated, and productive. Conversely, when employees are struggling with mental health issues, it can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and turnover.
Employers can support mental health in the workplace by implementing policies and programs that promote mental well-being. This can include providing access to mental health resources, such as employee assistance programs, counseling services, and mental health training. Employers can also create a supportive work environment that encourages open communication, reduces stigma around mental health, and promotes work-life balance.
It is also important for employers to recognize the signs of mental health issues in their employees and provide support and accommodations when needed. This can include offering flexible work schedules, providing time off for mental health days, and connecting employees with mental health professionals.
Promoting mental health in the workplace is not only beneficial for employees but also for employers. A mentally healthy workforce is more likely to be engaged, motivated, and productive, leading to higher levels of job satisfaction and retention. Additionally, prioritizing mental health can help reduce healthcare costs, absenteeism, and turnover.
In conclusion, mental health in the workplace is essential for creating a positive work culture and supporting the well-being of employees. Employers have a responsibility to prioritize mental health and provide resources and support for their employees. By promoting mental health in the workplace, employers can create a more productive, engaged, and satisfied workforce.
