The Minnesota polar vortex, which caused Midwest weather and temperatures in some areas of the Midwest to drop to -40C, has forced grain traders and meaty producers to close their facilities and adjust their transportation routes. Heavy snowfall, extreme wind chills and historically low temperatures in places has made it difficult for farmers to get around, drive tractors, feed animals and hydrate animals by preventing water from freezing. Tyson temporarily closed all of its grain plants due to the deep cold weather, while Cargill shut down six of its facilities on safety concerns. Smithfield Foods amended its transportation routes to avoid areas most severely impacted by the severe weather. The overall harm to crops remains unclear, with farmers now beginning to assess damage.
The Minnesota polar vortex, which caused Midwest weather and temperatures in some areas of the Midwest to drop to -40C, has forced grain traders and meaty producers to close their facilities and adjust their transportation routes. Tyson temporarily closed all of its grain plants due to the deep cold weather, while Cargill shut down six of its facilities on safety concerns. Smithfield Foods amended its transportation routes to avoid areas most severely impacted by the severe weather. The overall harm to crops remains unclear, with farmers now beginning to assess damage.