The Heat, the Humidity, and the Harvest: Summer in Indiana
Summer in Indiana is a season of transformation. After the unpredictable swings of spring, the state settles into a rhythm of long, sunny days and warm, humid nights. Indiana is located in the Midwest region of the United States, and its summer weather is shaped by its flat landscapes and its distance from the cooling effects of the ocean. For people living in the "Hoosier State," summer means more than just a date on the calendar; it is a time of intense heat, sudden storms, and a landscape that turns a deep, vibrant green.
One of the most famous aspects of an Indiana summer is the humidity. Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. Because Indiana is surrounded by states with vast amounts of farmland, the air often feels heavy and moist. Farmers and scientists often talk about a phenomenon called "corn sweat." As corn plants grow rapidly during June and July, they release moisture into the air through their leaves. This process, known as transpiration, can make a hot day feel even stickier. Temperatures often climb into the 80s and 90s, but when you add high humidity, the "heat index" can make it feel like it is over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Humidity:
- The amount of water vapor present in the air.
- Transpiration:
- The process by which plants give off water vapor through the pores in their leaves.
- Drought:
- A long period of time with very little or no rain.
- Meteorologist:
- A scientist who studies the atmosphere and predicts weather conditions.
- Heat Index:
- A measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is added to the actual air temperature.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1According to the passage, why does the air in Indiana often feel heavy and moist during the summer months?
- 2What is the phenomenon known as 'corn sweat' and how does it happen?
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About this informational passage for Upper Elementary
“The Heat, the Humidity, and the Harvest: Summer in Indiana” is a informational reading passage about Indiana Weather, written for Upper Elementary. It takes about 4 minutes to read (613 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.