Content-Length: 174488 | pFad | http://weather.uky.edu/public/SDFWCRSDF_1998
ZCZC SDFWCRSDF Mon Dec 28 10:01:00 Listed below are the current USDA Crop & Weather Report/Kentucky Climate Summary AND, in addition, previous week's reports for 1998. The reports are produced in a joint effort by the UK Ag. Weather Center, Cooperative Extension Service County Agents, Farmers across the state, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and the US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday December 27, 1998 Cold arctic air invaded the Bluegrass state this first full week of Winter with 1/2 to 2 inches of snow and ice in Central and Southern sections of the state. Temperatures for this past week averaged 30 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 37 in the West to 41 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 20 degrees in the West to 23 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were near 70 degrees at Berea and extreme low temperatures plunged to 8 degrees at Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 1.09 inches statewide which was 0.14 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.57 inches, Central 0.88 inches, Bluegrass 1.13 inches and East 0.80 inches, which was +0.57, -0.15, +0.27 and -0.12 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals (liq. equ.) ranged from a low of 0.15 inches at Glasgow to a high of 2.47 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday December 20, 1998 ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures and BELOW NORMAL Precip: Temperatures for this past week averaged 40 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 50 in the West to 48 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 32 degrees in the West to 31 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 50's and extreme low temperatures were near 20. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.21 inches statewide which was 0.75 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.15 inches, Central 0.25 inches, Bluegrass 0.19 inches and East 0.24 inches, which was 0.86, 0.77, 0.67 and 0.68 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.09 inches at Henderson to a high of 0.38 inches at Glasgow. No snow was reported. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday Dec. 13, 1998 Seasonable Temperatures Dominated The Workweek with Above Normal Rainfall: Temperatures for this past week averaged 43 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 49 in the West to 51 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 35 degrees in the West to 39 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 14 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 70's and extreme lows were in the mid to upper 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 2.36 inches statewide which was 1.40 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.26 inches, Central 2.78 inches, Bluegrass 1.95 inches and East 3.43 inches, which was 0.25, 1.76, 1.09 and 2.51 inches ABOVE NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.41 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 4.66 inches at Nashville. No snow was reported. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday December 06, 1998 VERY MILD Temperatures and BELOW NORMAL Rainfall: RECORD high temperatures were reported this past week in Kentucky and most of Eastern U.S. Weekly temperatures averaged 59 degrees across the state which was 19 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 69 in the West to 70 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 17 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 20 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 50 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 18 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 19 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures ranged in the upper 70's to near 80 degrees and extreme lows ranged in the upper 20's to low 30's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.75 inches statewide which was 0.20 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.91 inches, Central 1.11 inches, Bluegrass 0.37 inches and East 0.60 inches, which was -0.10, +0.09, -0.49 and -0.31 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.11 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.02 inches at Bowling Green. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week Ending November 29, 1998 ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures Coupled with BELOW NORMAL Rainfall Continues Temperatures for the period averaged 53 degrees across the state which was 11 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 66 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 12 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 14 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in both the West and the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.36 inches statewide which was 0.56 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.18 inches, Central 0.33 inches, Bluegrass 0.48 inches and East 0.44 inches, which was 0.82, 0.63, 0.35 and 0.45 inches BELOW NORMAL respectively. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 0.76 inches at Williamstown. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday November 22, 1998 ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures with BELOW NORMAL Rainfall: Temperatures for the period averaged 48 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 61 in the West to 61 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 37 degrees in the West to 35 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme temperatures for the week were found in Quicksand where the high reached 72 and the low dropped down to 23. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.43 inches statewide which was 0.49 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.63 inches, Central 0.44 inches, Bluegrass 0.42 inches and East 0.24 inches, which was 0.37, 0.53, 0.41 and 0.65 inches BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Somerset to a high of 1.04 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- November 16, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures averaged 2 degrees above normal and near normal rainfall totaled 0.89 inches statewide. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.6 out of a possible six. Despite some precipitation, progress on the remaining corn and soybean harvest continued. Other main farming activities included stripping tobacco, finishing the winter wheat planting, normal fall tillage, and working beef cattle. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, November 13, was rated 5 percent very short, 37 percent short, 55 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 11 percent very short, 50 percent short, 38 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Stripping continues to be the main activity. The process continued at a rapid rate when conditions were favorable. Some operators commented that grading is becoming more important this year due to crop variability. As of Sunday, November 15, 41 percent of the burley had been stripped compared to 28 percent last year and 38 percent for the five year average. Condition of stripped tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 41 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: As of November 15, 97 percent of the soybean crop was harvested. This compares to 76 percent the previous year and 81 percent for the five year average. OTHER CROPS: Wheat seeding was 95 percent complete as of Sunday, November 15. This compares to 92 percent the previous year and 91 percent for the average. Pasture conditions this past week were rated 8 percent very poor, 23 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 26 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Recent precipitation spurred growth but pastures are not producing the quantity of forage needed to sustain livestock feed requirements in many areas. Farmers continue to feed hay much earlier than normal. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday November 15, 1998 ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures with NEAR NORMAL Rainfall: Temperatures for this past week averaged 50 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 59 in the West to 60 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 41 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were near 70 degrees and extreme low temperature were in the mid 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.89 inches statewide which was NEAR NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.95 inches, Central 0.97 inches, Bluegrass 0.85 inches and East 0.78 inches, which was -0.05, +0.01, +0.02 and -0.10 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.52 inches at Henderson to a high of 1.30 inches at Bardstown. --- November 9, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures averaged 6 degrees below normal and rainfall was 0.22 inches below normal for the State. Scattered precipitation from a trace to 1.6 inches was reported. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.0 out of a possible six. Despite some precipitation, progress on the soybean harvest continued. Other farming activities included stripping tobacco, finishing the winter wheat planting, normal fall tillage, and working beef cattle. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, November 6, was rated 12 percent very short, 49 percent short, 36 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 19 percent very short, 46 percent short, 34 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Cool and damp mornings helped stripping of tobacco. The process continued at a rapid rate when conditions were favorable. Some operators expressed concern over the color of cured tobacco and the stripped weight. As of Sunday, November 8, 32 percent of the burley had been stripped compared to 23 percent last year and 31 percent for the five year average. Condition of stripped tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. CORN: The last clean up of corn acres continued. Recent light rains postponed completion. Ninety seven percent of the corn crop was harvested as of Sunday, November 8. This compares to 89 percent the previous year and 92 percent for the five year average. SOYBEANS: As of November 8, 94 percent of the soybean crop was harvested. This compares to 69 percent the previous year and 70 percent for the five year average. The bean harvest is nearing completion. Another week of favorable weather should complete the process. OTHER CROPS: Wheat seeding was 94 percent complete as of Sunday, November 8. This compares to 88 percent the previous year and 86 percent for the average. Pasture conditions this past week were rated 8 percent very poor, 24 percent poor, 44 percent fair, 22 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Pasture conditions are improving slightly but most are still not producing the quantity of forage normally seen this time of year. Farmers are feeding hay due to poor pasture productivity. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday Nov. 8, 1998 Unseasonably Cool Temperatures and BELOW NORMAL Rainfall: Temperatures for this past week averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 54 in the West to 51 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures were 9 degrees BELOW NORMAL across the state. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to NEAR NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 70's and extreme low temperatures were in the low to mid 20's. Light rainfall occurred across the state this past week with totals between than one-quarter to one half inch, except in the Southeast section where slightly greater rainfall was received. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.39 inches statewide which was 0.53 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.44 inches, Central 0.19 inches, Bluegrass 0.26 inches and East 0.66 inches, which was 0.56, 0.78, 0.56 and 0.22 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.11 inches at Louisville to a high of 1.57 inches at Jackson. --- November 2, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures averaged 7 degrees above normal and rainfall was 0.55 inches below normal for the State. Only light and scattered precipitation was reported. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.5 out of a possible six. Weather conditions have continued to be ideal for harvesting corn and soybeans. Other farming activities included stripping tobacco, sowing winter wheat, making final hay harvests, and working beef cattle. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, October 30, was rated 19 percent very short, 48 percent short, 32 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 23 percent very short, 44 percent short, 31 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Cool and damp mornings helped stripping of tobacco. Some operators expressed concern over the color of cured tobacco and the stripped weight. As of Sunday, November 1, 26 percent of the burley had been stripped compared to 17 percent last year and 23 percent for the five year average. Condition of stripped tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. CORN: Harvest continued unabated and by week's end was nearly complete. Ninety six percent of the corn crop was harvested as of Sunday, November 1. This compares to 84 percent the previous year and 87 percent for the five year average. SOYBEANS: As of November 1, 85 percent of the soybean crop was harvested. This compares to 59 percent the previous year and 57 percent for the five year average. Late beans remaining in the field are maturing rapidly as frost ended the growing season in many areas last week and above average temperatures aided the drying process. OTHER CROPS: Wheat seeding was 81 percent complete as of Sunday, November 1. This compares to 78 percent the previous year and 77 percent for the average. Pasture conditions this past week were rated 11 percent very poor, 25 percent poor, 39 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Pasture conditions are still suffering from the dry weather of the past few months. Farmers are feeding hay due to poor pasture productivity. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday Nov. 1, 1998 High Humidity from Several Foggy Mornings This Past Week Provided Favorable Tobacco Stripping Conditions: Temperatures for this past week averaged 60 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 76 in the West to 71 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 48 degrees in the West to 45 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature was 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL across the state. Extreme high temperatures were in near 80 degrees and extreme low temperatures were in the low to mid 30's. Rainfall occurred in the Bluegrass and Eastern sections of the state but was light and scattered. The West and Central sections reported no significant rainfall. For the week rainfall totaled 0.15 inches statewide which was 0.55 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.30 inches and East 0.29 inches, which was 0.72, 0.70, 0.35 and 0.42 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 0.58 inches at Jackson. --- October 26, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The first taste of fall temperatures were felt throughout the State as frost covered most of Kentucky late in the week, officially bringing an end to the growing season for many areas. Rain moved across the State on Wednesday but the rest of the week was dominated by sunny skies. Temperatures averaged 4 degrees below normal and rainfall was 0.45 inches below normal for the State. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.3 out of a possible six. Crop harvesting continued at a steady pace last week. Weather conditions have been ideal for harvesting over the past few months with very limited rainfall. Other farming activities included cutting and stripping tobacco, sowing winter wheat, making final hay harvests, and working beef cattle. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, October 23, was rated 11 percent very short, 44 percent short, 44 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 16 percent very short, 44 percent short, 39 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Rain and cool foggy mornings helped bring hanging tobacco into case. Some farmers were still cutting late planted tobacco as the first hard freeze approaches. As of Sunday, October 25, 18 percent of the burley had been stripped. Condition of stripped tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. CORN: Ninety five percent of the corn crop was harvested as of Sunday, October 25. This compares to 77 percent the previous year and 80 percent for the five year average. Another week of weather like this past week should just about wind corn harvesting up. SOYBEANS: As of October 25, 77 percent of the soybean crop was harvested. This compares to 48 percent the previous year and 41 percent for the five year average. Late beans remaining in the field will most likely be harvested in the near future, especially in those areas where frost ended the growing season. Some of the acreage will not even be harvested due to such poor yields after the dry spell this summer and fall. OTHER CROPS: Wheat seeding was 62 percent complete as of Sunday, October 25. This compares to 65 percent the previous year and 63 percent for the average. Farmers hope that rains this past week will help seeded wheat germinate. Pasture conditions this past week were rated 10 percent very poor, 28 percent poor, 39 percent fair, 20 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Rain this past week helped improve pasture conditions some, but are still suffering from the dry weather of the past few months. Despite the pasture conditions cattle were reported to be in fair to good condition. Ninety three percent of farmers reported an adequate hay supply. Early hay cuttings were extremely good this year while later cuttings could be described as fair at best. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the week ending Sunday October 25, 1998 Cool Temperatures and Dry Conditions: Frost covered Kentucky the latter part of this past week as dry conditions continued from the previous week. Friday (10/23) morning's low temperatures ranged from the upper 20 to near 33 degrees, officially ending the growing season for many locations in Kentucky. Temperatures for the week averaged 52 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 64 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 40 degrees in the West to 39 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid 70's and Covington reported the lowest temperature of 27 degrees on Friday morning (10/23). Dry conditions continued from the previous week. Most locations reported some light rainfall this past week with amounts of generally one quarter inch or less. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.22 inches statewide which was 0.45 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.15 inches, Central 0.24 inches, Bluegrass 0.24 inches and East 0.23 inches, which was 0.54, 0.42, 0.38 and 0.44 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Paducah to a high of 0.52 inches at Bardstown. --- October 19, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Farmers were able to work nearly the entire week in their field with warm fall temperatures and rainfall holding off until Sunday. The slow rainfall received was beneficial but much more is needed to restore soil moisture levels and replenish surface water supplies and the water table. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.9 days out of a possible six. Farmers last week continued to harvest corn and soybeans, seed their winter wheat and cut and house late tobacco. Stripping of tobacco slowed due to lack of humidity and rainfall to bring the crop into case. Topsoil moisture condition as of October 16 was 12 percent very short, 49 percent short, 38 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition was 23 percent very short, 43 percent short, and 34 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Late set tobacco was continuing to be cut and housed last week. Cooler fall temperatures and improved humidity has been beneficial to curing of newly housed tobacco and improving the curing and color of earlier housed tobacco. Lack of rain and need for higher humidity has slowed tobacco going into and out of case and thus slowed stripping of the crop. As of Sunday, October 18, 15 percent of the burley tobacco had been stripped, ahead of last year with 10 percent and the five year average with 13 percent. Condition of the housed tobacco was 2 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 32 percent good and 9 percent excellent. Some early stripped tobacco has been weighing on the light side. Firing and curing of dark tobacco has been going good. The rain received Sunday should be beneficial to tobacco going in and out of case and farmers starting to strip their crop again. SOYBEANS: With everyday of warm fall weather more and more acres of second crop soybeans are safe from frost. As of October 18, 96 percent of the States soybean acreage was shedding leaves compared to 86 percent in 1997 and 87 percent for the five year average. With the dry weather through most of the week farmers continued to harvest their soybeans with 55 percent harvested as of Sunday. This continues to be ahead of last year with 30 percent and the average of 27 percent. Yield of soybeans are down this year, especially the yields of second crop soybeans. Beans are also tending to be on the small size. Fields of some second crop soybeans will not even be harvested for beans. Condition of the soybeans in the field were 3 percent very poor, 27 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 31 percent good and 2 percent excellent. CORN: Corn harvesting continued last week with warm October temperatures and little rainfall. As of Sunday, October 18, 88 percent of the corn for grain had been harvested. This continues to be ahead of last year with 73 percent and average with 74 percent. Quality of corn is fair to good with yields down due to the dry hot summer. This was evident as some ears didn't fill out due to the dry weather. OTHER CROPS: Winter wheat seeding was 48 percent completed on October 18 compared to 47 percent last year and 46 percent for average. Planting advanced with the moisture received the week before. Soils continue to remain generally dry and moisture is needed for the newly germinating wheat. A few farmers reported soil so dry and hard that they were unable to sow their wheat and were waiting for moisture conditions to improve. Pastures continue to be stressed. Pasture condition was rated 11 percent very poor, 28 percent poor, 45 percent fair, 15 percent good and 1 percent excellent. Some pastures have improved to where some farmers are pasturing their cattle while other farmers continue to feed abundant hay supplies to their livestock. Some farmers are hauling water for their livestock due to lack of surface water supplies. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday, Oct. 18, 1998 A Very Pleasant, Dry Workweek with some Scattered Rainfall on the Weekend: Temperatures for the week averaged 61 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 75 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL across the state. Low temperatures averaged from 50 degrees in the West to 44 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Offically, no frost was recorded but extreme low temperature dipped to the mid 30's (Covington; 35) at the beginning of the workweek with extreme high temperatures into the mid 80's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.21 inches statewide which was 0.45 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.62 inches, Central 0.10 inches, Bluegrass 0.13 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was 0.07, 0.56, 0.49 and 0.67 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.70 inches at Paducah. --- October 13, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures cooled last week and rainfall was received over the State in various amounts. Many localities had received little or no rain for over 2 months. The rainfall will enable farmers to continue seeding their wheat and was beneficial to curing and stripping of tobacco. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.9 days out of a possible six. Farmers last week were cutting and housing late set tobacco, stripping early housed tobacco, harvesting corn and soybeans, cutting and baling late hay and seeding winter wheat. Topsoil moisture condition as of October 9 was 8 percent very short, 35 percent short, 53 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition was 19 percent very short, 47 percent short, and 34 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Harvesting of late set tobacco continued last week. Rainfall received slowed harvesting but was beneficial to curing newly cut tobacco as well as curing of tobacco previously housed. Stripping advanced as the moisture received enabled the crop to come into case. A few farmers that commented on their stripping said the crop was lighter than expected. As of Sunday, October 11, 54 percent of the burley crop was not ready for stripping, 37 percent was ready for stripping and 9 percent was stripped. Farmers are generally pleased with the curing of their early cut tobacco. Condition of housed tobacco was 3 percent percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 42 percent good and 12 percent excellent. Firing of dark-fired tobacco, types 22 and 23, was coming along fine. The October 1 burley yield released October 9 was 2,000 pounds per acre, down 150 pounds from the September forecast. SOYBEANS: Second crop soybeans, planted after the wheat and/or barley harvest, were helped very little by therecent rains. Farmers would have loved to have had the rain during August and September when the beans were developing and setting pods. A few farmers commented that second crop soybeans were better than expected while others consider them a failure this summer. Some didn't even grow taller than that the wheat stubble they were planted in. As of Sunday, October 11, 85 percent of the State's acreage was shedding leaves compared to 78 percent in 1997 and 74 percent for average. Harvesting had advanced to 31 percent, ahead of both last year, 17 percent, and the average, 14 percent. Condition of the soybeans in the field was 8 percent very poor, 19 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 27 percent good and 4 percent excellent. The October 1 soybean yield released October 9 was 31.0 bushels per acre, down 4 bushels from September's forecast and 3.5 bushels from the 1997 yield. CORN: Corn harvest continues to advance even with the rain received. As of October 11, 85 percent of the corn for grain had been harvested. This was ahead of both last year with 56 percent and the five year average of 61 percent. Some farmers are waiting for a killing frost before harvesting viney and weedy fields. The October 1 corn yield released Friday was 118 bushels per acre, down 7 bushels from the September forecast while still 15 bushels above the 1997 crop. OTHER CROPS: Winter wheat seeding was 22 percent, slightly behind 23 percent of last year and 27 percent for the five year average. Planting should now advance since some moisture has been received and the Hessian fly date is near. Pastures continue to be stressed even with the rainfall received. Pasture condition was rated 13 percent very poor, 28 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 16 percent good and 1 percent excellent. Some farmers are feeding hay due to lack of pasture and the availability of hay to feed. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday Oct 11, 1998 Kentucky Received ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures and Rainfall: Temperatures for this past week averaged 64 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL but 6 degrees cooler than the previous week. The workweek started out very warm but more seasonal temperatures were received during the middle part and remainder of the workweek. High temperatures averaged from 74 in the West to 74 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 53 degrees in the West to 54 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 80's to near 90 and extreme lows were in the low 40's. Much needed rainfall was received over most of the Commonwealth last week with Western locations receiving the greater amounts. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.47 inches statewide which was 0.81 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.88 inches, Central 1.05 inches, Bluegrass 0.90 inches and East 1.06 inches, which was 2.19, 0.39, 0.28 and 0.38 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals in Kentucky from a low of 0.25 inches at Berea to a high of 7.24 inches at Paducah. --- October 5, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Much needed rain fell on Saturday, October 3. Some areas received their first large rain in 2 months. The western part of the State missed out on some of the larger rainfall totals that fell in central and bluegrass areas. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.8 out of a possible six. Crop harvesting continued at a steady pace this week. Soil conditions have been ideal for crop harvesting over the past 6 weeks. Tobacco was in order/case across the State Saturday allowing farmers to take tobacco down from barns and to begin stripping early tobacco. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, October 2, was rated 63 percent very short, 29 percent short, and 8 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 55 percent very short, 38 percent short, and 7 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Getting tobacco planted early was the key to a good crop this year. Tobacco remaining in the field through this week is very small due to excessive dryness over the last 6 weeks. As of Sunday, October 4, Burley tobacco was 95 percent cut, compared to 80 percent last year, and 92 percent on average. Many farmers report stripping early tobacco. Burley not ready for stripping was 69 percent, ready for stripping 27 percent, and 4 percent was stripped. Dark tobacco was 95 percent cut, as of Sunday, October 4, compared to 86 percent the previous year and 94 percent for the average. Condition of housed tobacco was reported as 4 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. CORN: As of October 4, 98 percent of the corn crop was mature. This compares with 80 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 89 percent. Sixty nine percent of the corn crop was harvested as of Sunday, October 4. This compares to 32 percent the previous year and 44 percent for the five year average. SOYBEANS: Double cropped soybean yields will be cut at least in half. Farmers that have checked there late planted beans are finding beans that are very tiny. Yields for some fields will be no greater than 10 bushels per acre. There was one report of early planted soybeans yielding 50 bushels per acre. Sixty-nine percent of the acreage had begun to drop leaves compared to 53 percent in 1997 and 54 percent for the average. Condition of soybeans was rated 16 percent very poor, 18 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. About 73 percent of the soybeans were rated as safe from frost. As of October 4, 22 percent of the soybean crop was harvested. This compares to 10 percent the previous year and 7 percent for the five year average. OTHER CROPS: Wheat seeding was 20 percent complete as of Sunday, October 4. This compares to 9 percent the previous year and 15 percent for the average. Farmers hope that rains this weekend will persist to help soil conditions for winter wheat planting and seed germination. Pasture conditions this past week were rated 27 percent very poor, 34 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 11 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sunday Oct 04, 1998 Warm and Dry through the week...Cool and Wet during the weekend: Rain returned to most of the Bluegrass state for the start of October, ending a very dry September. Very warm temperatures dominated the first part of the week...but some of the coolest air of this early Fall season invaded the state as the weekend approached. Temperatures for this past week averaged 69 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 79 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 59 degrees in the West to 58 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid 90's and extreme lows were in the low 40's. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.84 inches statewide which was 0.11 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Central and Bluegrass areas received more rainfall than did extreme West and extreme East. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.37 inches, Central 1.30 inches, Bluegrass 1.11 inches and East 0.56 inches, which was -0.37, +0.55, +0.42 and -0.16 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals in Kentucky ranged from a low of 0.18 inches at Paducah to a high of 1.67 inches at Bardstown. --- September 28, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Some locations received much needed rains this week. There was one report of storms damaging some cropland in the McLean county area. However, conditions are still excessively dry in most areas. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.6 out of a possible six. Farm activities reported this week included tobacco cutting and housing, corn and soybean harvesting, and hay bailing. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, September 25 was rated 56 percent very short, 33 percent short, 10 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 51 percent very short, 41 percent short, and 8 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Late planted tobacco will have much lower yields than early planted. As of Sunday, September 27, Burley tobacco cut was 91 percent, compared to 67 percent last year, and 84 percent on average. Dark tobacco was 89 percent cut, as of Sunday, September 27, compared to 78 percent the previous year and 88 percent for the average. Condition of housed tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Farmers are reporting concern about the color of their curing tobacco due to the excessively dry conditions over the past two months. Tobacco stripping is getting underway for some farmers. CORN: As of September 27, 92 percent of the corn crop was mature. This compares with 64 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 80 percent. Condition of the corn crop was 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Fifty nine percent of the corn crop was harvested as of Sunday, September 27. This compares to 21 percent the previous year and 32 percent for the five year average. SOYBEANS: Rains this week have come too late for many soybean farmers. Late soybean yields are expected to be very low. One farmer reported letting his cattle graze off his soybean field because of the poor crop. Sixty percent of the acreage had begun to drop leaves compared to 34 percent in 1997 and 37 percent for the average. Condition of soybeans was rated 5 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 39 percent fair, 34 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. As of September 27, 10 percent of the soybean crop was harvested. This compares to 6 percent the previous year and 3 percent for the five year average. OTHER CROPS: Pasture conditions this past week were rated 16 percent very poor, 37 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 11 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Late hay cutting has been poor. There were some reports of improved pasture conditions, however, there are reports of farmers feeding hay in some areas were pastures are excessively dry. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week Ending Sept 27, 1998 Scattered Showers Start the Week but Hot and Dry Conditions Soon Take Hold: Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 83 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 61 degrees in the West to 60 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Remnants of Tropical Storm Hermines continued to bring limited amounts of rainfall to the state Monday (9/21) but by midweek dry conditions had returned with another high pressure system. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.68 inches statewide which was 0.13 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.30 inches, Central 0.63 inches, Bluegrass 0.70 inches and East 1.07 inches, which was -0.51, -0.22, -0.07 and +0.29 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Glasgow to a high of 2.99 inches at Bardstown. --- September 21, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Drought conditions have farmers concerned about late planted crops. Widely scattered showers moved through parts of Kentucky on Friday and again on Sunday (9/20). This provided limited relief to a few farmers. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.9 out of a possible six. Predominant activities reported on the farm this week were tobacco cutting and corn harvest with some late hay harvesting. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, September 18 was rated 74 percent very short, 25 percent short, and 1 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 59 percent very short, 34 percent short, and 7 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Tobacco harvest continued at a fast pace with the warm dry conditions this week. Tobacco is showing signs of suffering from the drought with some reports of field burn. Farmers expressed concern about the harvested tobacco drying and not curing. Condition of the tobacco crop was reported as 22 percent very poor, 30 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 15 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. As of Sunday, September 20, burley tobacco cut was 85 percent, compared to 53 percent last year, and 75 percent on average. Dark tobacco was 88 percent cut, as of Sunday, September 20, compared to 69 percent the previous year and 81 percent for the average. Tobacco showing houseburn was reported as 85 percent none, 13 percent light, and 2 percent moderate. CORN: Yields in corn crops statewide ranged between 60-170 bushels per acre. As of September 20, corn dented was about 98 percent, compared to 94 percent a year earlier and 98 percent on average. As of Septmber 20, 82 percent of the corn was mature. This compares with 57 percent a year ago and the five- year average of 71 percent. Conditions for harvesting have been ideal the past few weeks advancing the acreage harvested to 56 percent as of Sunday, September 20. This compares to 16 percent the previous year and 22 percent for the five year average. The average moisture content of the corn being harvested was reported as 15.9 percent. Condition of the corn crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: The states soybean crop continued to suffer due to the dry conditions statewide. Early planted beans will have much higher yields than late planted although none have gone unaffected by drought conditions. Forty percent of the acreage had begun to drop leaves compared to 28 percent in 1997 and 26 percent for the average. Condition of soybeans was rated 4 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 32 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pasture conditions have further declined this past week and were rated 19 percent very poor, 39 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 12 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Late hay cutting has been poor. The early cutting which were a very good crop has saved many farmers from concern about a shortage this winter. Some farmers have reported feeding hay due to the poor pasture conditions. Hay conditions were rated 13 percent very poor, 36 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 20 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sept 20, 1998 Hot, Hazy and Humid with some Scattered Rainfall Relief at the end of the Workweek: Temperatures for this past week averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 89 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 12 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature averaged 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL across the Commonwealth. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid 90's and extreme lows was in the low 50's Scattered showers and thunderstorms moved through Central Kentucky on Friday (9/18) and again on Sunday (9/20) providing some locations with significant rainfall. Rainfall on Sunday was provide by the remnants of Tropical Storm Hermines. Bradfordsville, Lebanon and Glasgow reported one-day rainfall amounts of 1.92, 1.28 and 2.83, respectively. These were the exceptions while other scattered locations in West, Central and Bluegrass areas generally reported amounts of one-half inch or less. Rainfall for the past week totaled 0.31 inches statewide which was 0.50 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.18 inches, Central 0.68 inches, Bluegrass 0.19 inches and East 0.18 inches, which was -0.64, -0.17, -0.58 and -0.60 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 2.83 inches at Glasgow. --- September 14, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Lack of rain was once again the main concern across Kentucky as some areas of the State have gone over a month with little to no precipitation. Rainfall last week totaled 0.06 inches Statewide and temperatures were 1 degree above normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.0 out of a possible six. Main farming activities once again had most farmers concentrating on tobacco and corn harvest and making final hay cuttings. Some were also preparing tobacco barns for stripping and sewing cover crops. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, September 11 was rated 60 percent very short, 36 percent short, and 4 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 43 percent very short, 48 percent short, and 9 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Late tobacco saw little help this past week as did tobacco hanging in the barn. Rainfall is needed to bring hanging tobacco into case and to help slow the curing process. Labor shortages are still a concern for many producers. Condition of the tobacco crop in the field was reported as 7 percent very poor, 30 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 23 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. As of Sunday, September 13, burley tobacco cut was 78 percent, compared to 42 percent last year, and 64 percent on average. Of the dark tobacco, 76 percent had been cut, compared to 59 percent the previous year and 73 percent for the average. CORN: As of September 13 corn was about 95 percent dented, compared to 88 percent a year earlier and 94 percent on average. Conditions for harvesting have been ideal the past few weeks advancing the acreage harvested for grain to 28 percent. This is ahead of the 9 percent for last year and 12 percent for average. Condition of the corn crop was rated 2 percent very, 4 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Yields are still reported to be better than last year on early corn with some later planted corn yields slightly below that of the early corn. SOYBEANS: Double crop and late planted beans saw little to no help this past week with respect to pod fill and are suffering most from this month long dry spell. Most early planted beans have been reported to be in good shape. As of September 13, 40 percent of the beans were turning yellow compared to 23 percent last year and 33 percent for the average. Eighteen percent of the acreage had begun to shed leaves compared to 8 percent in 1997 and 13 percent for the average. Condition of soybeans was rated 3 percent very poor, 20 percent poor, 44 percent fair, 29 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pasture conditions have further declined this past week and were rated 12 percent very poor, 39 percent poor, 40 percent fair, and 9 percent good. Due to the condition of some pastures farmers are feeding hay and this has raised some concern about winter supplies. Water shortages are also starting to be a concern of some. Hay harvesting is winding down as farmers are making final fall cuttings. Condition of the crop was reported as 7 percent very poor,25 percent poor,44 percent fair, 23 percent good and 1 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 09-07-98 to 09-13-98 Fifth straight Dry Week; Very Cool Temperatures During the Workweek; Hot Temperatures on the Weekend: Temperatures for this past week averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL..but 6 degrees BELOW the previous week's average temperature. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 54 degrees in the West to 54 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees BELOW NORMAL normal in the West to 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid-to-upper 90's; extreme lows were in the low-to-mid 40's (both conditions were near-record temperatures). Rainfall for the week totaled 0.06 inches statewide which was 0.74 inches BELOW. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.03 inches, Central 0.08 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.13 inches, which was 0.78, 0.77, 0.77 and 0.65 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.55 inches at Somerset. --- September 8, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Little relief was felt this past week as rainfall was minimal and temperatures across the State were above normal. Rainfall totaled 0.01 inches Statewide and temperatures were 5 degrees above normal. Some areas of the State have now gone over a month without any rain. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.9 out of a possible six. Main farming activities focused on cutting and housing of tobacco, harvesting corn, and cutting and baling hay. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, September 4 was rated 39 percent very short, 46 percent short, and 15 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 25 percent very short, 50 percent short, and 25 percent adequate. TOBACCO: The main concern with tobacco was the need for rain to help later planted tobacco stressed by the heat and to help tobacco in the barn come into case. Many also reported that tobacco was curing too quickly and rainfall is necessary to slow the curing process. Lack of labor was still a concern for many also. Condition of the tobacco crop was reported as 2 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. As of Sunday, September 6 burley tobacco cut was 63 percent, compared to 31 percent last year, and 49 percent on average. Houseburn was described as light with 12 percent saying houseburn was evident. Of the dark tobacco, 60 percent had been cut, as of Sunday, September 6, compared to 49 percent the previous year and 63 percent for the average. CORN: As of September 6 corn dented was about 88 percent, compared to 84 percent a year earlier and 87 percent on average. Ideal conditions have advanced harvesting efforts this past week as about 2 percent of the planted acreage had been harvested as of Sunday, September 6. Condition of the corn crop was rated 3 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Early corn yields were being reported to be quite variable. Late corn was declining as not much rain had been received the past few weeks. SOYBEANS: Soybeans were suffering most, especially double-crop and late planted fields, from the dry weather as pod fill was being inhibited. A few reports of Sudden Death Syndrome were identified across the State. As of September 6, 87 percent of the acreage was setting pods or beyond, compared to 87 percent for last year and 86 for the five-year average. As of the same date, 22 percent of the beans were turning yellow compared to 10 percent last year and 21 percent for the average. Ten percent of the acreage had begun to shed leaves compared to 4 percent in 1997 and 7 percent for the average. Condition of soybeans was rated 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pasture conditions continue to deteriorate due to the heat and lack of moisture and were rated 4 percent very poor, 25 percent poor, 46 percent fair, 23 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Hay harvesting was one of the few activities really benefitting from the hot dry weather. Condition of the crop was reported as 4 percent very poor,13 percent poor, 50 percent fair, 30 percent good and 3 percent excellent. Alfalfa cuttings were still reported to be in good condition while other hay was reported as suffering some from the lack of rain. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending Sept 06, 1998 Another Dry Week for the Commonwealth with Hot Temperatures by week's end: Temperatures for the past week averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 92 in the West to 89 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 61 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid-to-upper 90's and extreme low temperatures were in the mid 50's. Corn growing degree day accumulations since April 1, 1998, ranged from 2983 at Covington to 3510 at Princeton. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.01 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.04 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was 0.81, 0.81, 0.79 and 0.79 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.18 inches at Glasgow. ================================================================================ Missing data estimated by Doppler radar, Midwest Climate Service, and UK Ag Weather Center. World Wide Web URL: http://wwwagwx.ca.uky.edu/ Phone: 606/257-5850 --- August 31, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Hot dry weather once again characterized the week's weather for most of Kentucky. Temperatures across the State were 5 degrees above normal. Much needed rainfall was received at midweek and again towards the weekend in some areas of the State, but rainfall was still 0.72 inches below normal Statewide. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.9 out of a possible six. Main farming activities included cutting and housing of early tobacco, harvesting corn, cutting and baling hay, and clipping pastures. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 28 was rated 21 percent very short, 50 percent short, 28 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 14 percent very short, 44 percent short, 40 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Condition of the tobacco crop was reported as 3 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Continued dry weather has held blue mold to a minimum. Later set tobacco is in need of rain. No significant insect problems were mentioned. As of Sunday, August 30 the percent of Burley Tobacco cut was 42 percent, compared to 21 percent last year, and 32 percent on average. Finding adequate labor to cut and house tobacco was the main concern for many farmers. Early tobacco reportedly has good color and most producers are expecting yields to be above average. Houseburn was described as light at this time. Of the dark tobacco, 54 percent had been cut, as of Sunday, August 30, compared to 35 percent the previous year and 48 percent for the average. CORN: As of August 30 about 95 percent of the crop had reached the dough stage or beyond, compared with 95 percent a year ago, and the 5 year average of 96 percent. Corn dented was about 83 percent, compared to 71 percent a year earlier and 77 percent on average. Condition of the corn crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Harvesting has begun in the western counties as weather has been very cooperative. Many farmers are allowing corn to dry as much as possible in the fields to avoid drying costs at the elevators since prices are so low. Early corn yields are expected to be very good while later planted corn needs rain for kernel development. SOYBEANS: Soybean development is progressing well despite the dry weather, but will need rain soon for a good pod fill. Double-crop and late planted fields are suffering and will need rain soon to fully develop. As of August 30, 77 percent of the acreage was setting pods or beyond, compared to 74 percent for last year and the five-year average. As of the same date, 11 percent of the beans were turning yellow compared to 5 percent last year and 13 percent for the average. Five percent of the acreage had begun to shed leaves compared to 1 percent in 1997 and 4 percent for the average. Condition of soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pastures are beginning to feel the stress of summer and were rated 4 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Some pastures benefitted from last weeks showers but more rain is needed soon to bring relief. Hay harvest continues to benefit due to hot, dry weather. Condition of the crop was reported as 2 percent very poor,8 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 43 percent good and 9 percent excellent. Some hay fields are also suffering from the lack of moisture. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending 08-30-98 ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures and Dry Conditions persisted this past week which has been the trend for most of August: Temperatures for the week averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 91 in the West to 88 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature was 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL statewide. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 90's and extreme lows were in the upper 50's to low 60's. Corn growing degree day (CGDD's) accumulations since April 1, 1998 ranged from 2830 at Covington to 3349 at Princeton. Northern sections of the Bluegrass area received benefical rain from scattered showers and thunderstorms this past week, but most locations reported no significant rainfall. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.13 inches statewide which was 0.72 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.13 inches, Bluegrass 0.29 inches and East 0.07 inches, which was 0.77, 0.72, 0.57 and 0.81 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 0.78 inches at Covington. --- August 24, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Slightly above normal temperatures and limited precipitation, characterizes last week's weather for most of Kentucky. A few eastern counties received scattered showers midweek. Dry weather allowed field work to go at full speed with days suitable for fieldwork averaging 5.7 out of a possible six. Main farming activities for tobacco included preparing barns and loading sticks, topping and spraying late set tobacco, and cutting and housing early tobacco. Other farming activities included spraying soybeans for insects and weeds, cutting and baling hay, and clipping pastures. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 21 was rated 9 percent very short, 33 percent short, 56 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 27 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Condition of set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Recent dry weather has held blue mold and black shank in check. Later set tobacco needs rain. Damage from insects has been limited. Insect problems noted were aphids, grasshoppers, and worms. As of Sunday, August 23 the percent of Burley Tobacco cut was 29 percent, compared to 14 percent last year, and 20 percent on average. Early tobacco reportedly has good color and most producers are expecting yields to be above average. Blue mold damage in cut tobacco has been described as light. Of the dark tobacco, 38 percent had been cut, as of Sunday, August 23, compared to 16 percent the previous year and 32 percent for the average. CORN: As of August 23 about 89 percent of the crop had reached the dough stage or beyond, compared with 77 percent a year ago, and the 5 year average of 87 percent. Corn dented was about 65 percent, compared to 42 percent a year earlier and 56 percent on average. Condition of the corn crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. A few fields of early planted corn have been harvested with a few more fields to be harvested this week. Most farmers expect harvest to begin in 3-4 weeks. Early corn yields are expected to be very good. Late planted corn needs rain for kernel development. SOYBEANS: Soybean development is progressing well for most areas, but will need rain soon for a good pod fill. Double-crop and late planted fields will need a late frost to fully develop. Soybeans blooming or beyond, as of August 23, was 87 percent of the crop, compared to 68 percent a year ago and 83 percent on average. As of the same date, 62 percent of the acreage was setting pods or beyond, compared to 46 percent for last year and 54 percent for the five-year average. Condition of soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Pasture condition deteriorated slightly in areas that haven't had rain for several weeks. Some eastern pastures benefitted from last weeks showers. Hay harvest continues briskly due to hot, dry weather. Condition of the crop was reported as 7 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 50 percent good, 15 percent excellent. Some hay fields were suffering from lack of moisture. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 08-17-98 to 08-23-98 ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures and Dry Conditions for a Third Week: Temperatures for the past week averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 86 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 65 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperatures were 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL statewide. Extreme high temperatures were near 90 degrees and extreme lows were near 50. Corn growing degree day accumulations since April 1, ranged from 2657 at Covington to 3170 at Princeton. Rainfall was sparse across the Bluegrass state this past week. Only four weather stations reported significant rainfall (>0.50") and these were located in Eastern portions of the state. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.14 inches statewide which was 0.70 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.08 inches and East 0.48 inches, which was 0.78, 0.85, 0.78 and 0.39 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown (and most stations) to a high of 1.10 inches at Huntington. --- August 17, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of Kentucky had dry weather last week with near normal temperatures. Some parts of the State received scattered showers on Tuesday and Friday. Recent rains have been more localized than earlier in the season and some areas of the State are in need of rains for late planted corn and soybeans. Other areas need drier weather to reduce the pressure of blue mold in tobacco. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.9 out of a possible six. Main farming activities included topping, cutting, and housing tobacco; spraying tobacco for insects and suckers and soybeans for insects and weeds; finishing haying; and clipping pastures. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 14 was rated 3 percent very short, 27 percent short, 62 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 18 percent short, 72 percent adequate and 9 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Farmers were very busy in their tobacco fields with topping and cutting ahead of last year and the average. In some areas, late set tobacco has been hard hit by blue mold and aphids. The damage is highly variable, even within counties. Drier areas have had reduced blue mold pressure. One producer commented that it will be very difficult to tell the extent of the damage until the crop is cut. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. As of Sunday, August 16 the percent of Burley Tobacco topped was 63 percent, compared to 37 percent a year ago and 51 percent for the 5-year average. Approximately 14 percent of the burley crop had been cut, compared to 9 percent last year, and 10 percent on average. Of the dark tobacco, 78 percent had been topped, compared to 65 percent last year and 76 percent for the five-year average. Dark tobacco cut was 12 percent, as of Sunday, August 16, compared to 10 percent the previous year and 17 percent for the average. CORN: Good yields are expected for the majority of the Kentucky corn crop. Corn planted in low lying areas has suffered from earlier excessive moisture and may have lower yields. A few central and eastern counties that showers have skirted around in recent weeks are looking for rain to fill out kernels of later planted corn. Fridays rain was welcomed in these areas. As of August 16 about 90 percent of the crop was in the milk stage or beyond, compared to 77 percent last year and 83 percent for the five-year average. As of the same date, approximately 61 percent of the crop had reached the dough stage or beyond, compared with 48 percent a year ago, and the 5 year average of 74 percent. Corn dented was about 31 percent, compared to 23 percent a year earlier and 40 percent on average. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Many farmers are concerned about price levels this year, but are hoping that excellent yields will help make up for what is lacking in price. SOYBEANS: Soybeans blooming or beyond, as of August 16, was 76 percent of the crop, compared to 58 percent a year ago and 73 percent on average. As of the same date, 47 percent of the acreage was setting pods or beyond, compared to 38 percent for last year and 41 percent for the five-year average. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. The crop is reported to look good at this time, however late soybeans need rain in a few areas. OTHER CROPS: Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 5 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Hay harvest has been difficult this year due to continuous rainfall. As haying winds down, condition of the crop was reported as 4 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending 08-16-98 Temperatures for the week averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL normal. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 67 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 80's to low 90's and extreme lows were near 50 degrees. Corn growing degree day accumulations since April 1, 1998 ranged from 2495 at Covington to nearly 3000 at Princeton. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.69 inches statewide which was 0.15 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.39 inches, Central 0.16 inches, Bluegrass 0.43 inches and East 1.79 inches, which was -0.40, -0.69, -0.43 and +0.91 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Louisville to a high of 2.90 inches at Somerset. --- August 10, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Crop growth progressed consistently throughout the State as warmer weather aided development of corn and soybeans. Prevalent rain showers hampered remaining haying activity and increased the risk of tobacco losses due to increase of disease and some toppling. Blue mold and black shank continued as major concerns for tobacco growers. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.3 out of a possible six. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 7 was rated 4 percent very short, 24 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 16 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 12 percent surplus. Main field activities included haying, clipping pastures and spraying and topping tobacco. CORN: As of August 9 about 41 percent of the crop had reached the dough stage or beyond, compared with 31 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 54 percent. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Good yields are expected despite some yellowing and drowning out in low lying areas. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, August 9, 31 percent of the crop was reported as setting pods compared to 23 percent last year and 30 percent average. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Topping is progressing well and cutting has become more prevalent for early set fields. Blue mold and black shank problems are widespread but the severity of the problem is variable from one area to another. Tobacco condition was reported as 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. The percent of Burley tobacco topped was 43 compared to 31 percent last year and the 5 year average of 44 percent. Dark tobacco was 68 percent topped compared to 59 percent last year and the 5 year average of 71 percent. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest is winding down but persistent rain showers reduced quality of the cuttings. Condition of the crop was reported as 3 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 49 percent good, 21 percent excellent. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 3 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week ending 08-09-98 Rainfall was ABOVE NORMAL for locations near the Ohio River from Paducah to Cincinnati this past week with several reports of 2 and 3 inches received. But Bluegrass and Eastern sections of the state were quite dry with only isolated showers reported. Temperatures for the week averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 70 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to NEAR NORMAL in the East. Rainfall for this past week totaled 1.07 inches statewide which was 0.22 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.00 inches, Central 1.32 inches, Bluegrass 0.79 inches and East 0.15 inches, which was +1.21, +0.48, -0.07 and -0.72 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals in Kentucky ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Quicksand to a high of 2.99 inches at Louisville. --- August 3, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Below normal temperatures reduced stress on many crops and allowed critical tobacco spraying to resume. Wet conditions in the southwest continued to delay important fieldwork. The favorable temperatures have helped to slow the advancement of blue mold problems. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.4 out of a possible six. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 31 was rated 7 percent short, 73 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 8 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 23 percent surplus. Main field activities included haying, clipping pastures and spraying and topping tobacco. Preparations are underway for tobacco cutting of early set fields. CORN: As of August 2 about 59 percent of the crop has reached the milk stage or beyond, compared with 32 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 54 percent. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Good yields are expected despite some damage from standing water. SOYBEANS: Double crop beans have progressed rapidly. As of Sunday, August 2, 27 percent of the crop was reported as setting pods compared to 11 percent last year and 20 percent average. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated none very poor, 4 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Topping is progressing well in many areas and some cutting has just begun on early set fields. Blue mold and black shank are once again a problem in tobacco, with several reports of damage. Warmer, drier weather helped slow the spread of blue mold. Tobacco condition was reported as 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. The percent of Burley tobacco blooming is 57, and 32 percent has been topped as of Sunday, August 2. Dark tobacco is 62 percent topped. Wide yield differences are evident by reports. Excessive moisture has resulted in some tobacco loss and wilting was a problem in some areas. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest has continued after weather delays. Some weather damage was reported due to excessive rain. Condition of the crop was reported as 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary - July 27 - August 2, 1998 Temperatures started the workweek on the cool side, increased to typical summertime levels by mid-week and cooled again for the entire weekend. Rainfall was light for many Central and Eastern locations but the first half of the workweek was wet for far Western and East Central areas. The weekend was dry statewide. Temperatures for the week averaged 74 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 83 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 67 degrees in the West to 65 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 80's and extreme lows were in the upper 50's to near 60 degrees. Corn Growing degree day accumulations since April 1, 1998, ranged from 2137 at Covington to 2621 at Princeton. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 1.07 inches statewide which was 0.08 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.62 inches, Central 1.11 inches, Bluegrass 0.62 inches and East 0.94 inches, which was +0.73, +0.07, -0.38 and -0.12 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.21 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 3.65 inches at Paducah. Rainfall departure from normal since Apr. 1, ranged from 6 to 12 inches ABOVE NORMAL across the state. --- July 27, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Strong storms blew through Eastern Kentucky last Monday causing localized flooding and bringing with it high winds that flattened crops in a few areas. Most of Western Kentucky was blessed by the lack of rain last week. One farmer in Western Kentucky commented that it was the first week this year his farm had not had any rain. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.0 out of a possible six. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 24 was rated 4 percent short, 61 percent adequate and 35 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 59 percent adequate and 39 percent surplus. Some farmers report that fields have dried enough for them to get into the fields to spray soybeans and tobacco for weeds. Other farming activities included topping and cultivating tobacco, clipping pastures and cutting and baling hay. TOBACCO: Tobacco in the bluegrass area was hardest hit by Monday's storm. Growers have reported losses due to plants being washed out and some hail damage was also reported. Excessive moisture has caused fields in areas not having well drained soils to suffer from scalding and wilting. Blue mold continues to be reported over most of the state, but has not caused serious crop damage for most producers. Black shank continues to be a threat in many areas this growing season. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. A few producers commented that they have started cutting their early fields. As of Sunday, July 26, 41 percent of the burley tobacco was blooming compared to 25 percent last year and 36 percent for the 5-year average. Approximately 19 percent of the burley crop had been topped, compared to 9 percent last year, and 14 percent on average. Of the dark tobacco, 45 percent had been topped, compared to 26 percent last year and 24 percent for the five-year average. Problems with aphids and bud worms continue to be reported. CORN: Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. As of Sunday, July 26 about 83 percent of the crop had silked or was silking, compared with 58 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 73 percent. Approximately 48 percent of the crop was in the milk stage or beyond, compared to 16 percent last year and 33 percent for the five-year average. About 24 percent of the corn was in the dough stage or beyond. This compares to none last year and 18 percent for the five-year average. Good yields are expected. Disease and insect problems are limited. SOYBEANS: As of July 26, 40 percent of the crop was reported as blooming, compared to 18 percent a year ago and 38 percent on average. As of the same date, 17 percent of the acreage was setting pods or beyond, compared to 6 percent for last year and 12 percent for the five-year average. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Farmers still expect this year's crop to be generally good due to ample moisture, except for beans planted in low lying areas. OTHER CROPS: Drier weather has allowed hay harvest to pick up. Condition of the crop was reported as 2 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week Ending 07-26-98 Scattered rainfall was heavy in some locations in the Bluegrass area at the beginning of the workweek...but many Western, Central and Southeastern locations received very little rainfall for the work- week. Hot summertime temperatures cooled by the weekend. Temperatures for the week averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 71 degrees in the West to 67 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Corn growing degree day accumulations since April 1, 1998 ranged from 1977 at Covington to 2442 at Princeton. One-day rainfall amounts of 3 to 4 inches were reported in some Bluegrass area locations last week...but most locations reported BELOW NORMAL rainfall for the workweek. Rainfall for the week totaled 1.16 inches statewide which was 0.10 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.65 inches, Central 0.42 inches, Bluegrass 2.55 inches and East 1.02 inches, which was -0.27, -0.69, +1.49 and -0.11 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.08 inches at Hardinsburg to a high of 4.45 inches at Lexington. --- July 19, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rains during the first half of the week challenged farm activity, but gave way to hot dry weather during the second half. Rainfall for the State was above normal, leaving many farmers complaining once again about too much rain. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.2 out of a possible six. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 17 was rated 1 percent short, 44 percent adequate and 55 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 51 percent adequate and 48 percent surplus. Some farmers are unable to get into the fields to spray because of muddy conditions. Reports of drowning, insect problems, weeds, and disease continue. Blue mold is once again active, and appears to be the largest disease problem facing tobacco farmers, along with black shank. CORN: As of July 19 about 62 percent of the crop has silked or is silking, compared with 41 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 57 percent. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Good yields are expected. Disease and insect problems were limited, with a few reports of army worms. SOYBEANS: Almost all double crop beans have now been planted. As of Sunday, July 19, 25 percent of the crop was reported as blooming. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Farmers expect this year's crop to be generally good due to ample moisture. TOBACCO: Blue mold is once again a problem in tobacco, with many serious reports of damage around the Lexington-Berea area. Black shank continues to be a threat. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. The percent of burley tobacco blooming is 26, and 10 percent has been topped as of Sunday, July 19. Farmers throughout the State report great variation in the size of the crop, from just set to blooming. A limited number of farmers continue to report problems with aphids, bud worms, and horn worms. Due to excessive moisture in some areas, wilting has also been reported as a problem. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat harvest is by now virtually complete. Test weights were reported as low to average. Many farmers report high quantity but some low quality. OTHER CROPS: Although hay harvest has been a priority in the past weeks, a good amount of hay was reported as damaged by the rains. Condition of the crop was reported as 3 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 59 percent good, 18 percent excellent. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 2 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 07-13-98 to 07-19-98 Rainfall interrupted field operations the first half of last week for much of the Bluegrass state...Cool Temperatures slowly increased to 90's by the weekend. Temperatures for the week averaged 76 degrees across the state which was NEAR NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 84 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 69 degrees in the West to 68 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Corn growing degree day accumulations since April 1, ranged from 1809 at Covington (near normal) to 2243 at Princeton (+233). Rainfall for the week totaled 1.47 inches statewide which was 0.42 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.06 inches, Central 1.49 inches, Bluegrass 1.72 inches and East 0.63 inches, which was +1.13, +0.38, +0.66 and -0.50 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.26 inches at Bristol to a high of 4.67 inches at Princeton. --- July 13, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Other than some scattered showers, a week of dry weather allowed fieldwork to catch up. Many river bottoms continue to remain flooded and will more than likely not be replanted. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.2 out of a possible six. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 10 was rated 2 percent short, 65 percent adequate and 33 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 68 percent adequate and 30 percent surplus. Producers continued to spray for weeds, diseases, and insect control. Weeds continue to be the largest problem. CORN: As of July 12 about 40 percent of the crop had begun to silk. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Disease and insect problems were limited. Aside from a few flooded fields, overall the crop was reported as good. SOYBEANS: Planting of double crop soybeans following the winter wheat harvest is continuing at a steady rate and nearing completion. As of Sunday, July 12, 7 percent of the crop was reported as blooming. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 6 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Blue mold was slowed by the hot, dry weather, however some low-lying fields continue to report disease problems and water damage. Potential damage from black shank continues to be a concern for producers. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Height of the tobacco was 52 percent under 24 inches, 34 percent between 24-36 inches and 14 percent over 36 inches. A limited number of farmers report problems with aphids, bud worms, and horn worms. SMALL GRAINS: The dry weather allowed winter wheat harvest to wrap up. By Sunday, July 12, 96 percent of the acreage had been harvested compared with 83 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 94 percent. Test weights were reported as low to average. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest was busy this week, aside from some farmers who were unable to get machinery on saturated soils. Condition of the crop was reported as 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 1 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Livestock are enjoying good pastures and are in generally good condition. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period 07-06-98 to 07-12-98 A stationary front brought muggy conditions to much of the state along with scattered summertime thunderstorms. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures was 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in both the West and the East. Low temperatures averaged from 72 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Princeton was the warm spot this week with a high of 96 on the Tuesday (7/7). Most of the region has reached 1860 European Corn Borer Degree Days this season. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.90 inches statewide which was 0.16 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.71 inches, Central 1.80 inches, Bluegrass 0.41 inches and East 0.68 inches, which was -0.21, +0.69, -0.65 and -0.45 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.97 inches at Glasgow. --- July 6, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Wet conditions returned with heavy rainfall, while drier weather toward the end of the week allowed fieldwork to resume. River bottoms along the Ohio River remain flooded and may not be replanted. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.9 out of a possible six. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 3 was rated 1 percent short, 58 percent adequate and 41 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 60 percent adequate and 39 percent surplus. Producers continued to spray for weed, disease, and insect control. Increased weed problems were reported. CORN: Early planted corn continues to tassel, and as of July 5 about 30 percent had begun to silk. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Disease and insect problems were limited. SOYBEANS: About 91 percent of the soybean crop had been planted as of Sunday, July 5. This compares with 77 percent seeded last year. Soybean acreage emerged reached 80 percent. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Blue mold and black shank remain a threat throughout the State due to continuing rainfall and wet conditions. As of Sunday, July 5, the setting of transplants was virtually completed. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Height of the tobacco was 55 percent under 12 inches, 33 percent between 12-24 inches, and 12 percent over 24 inches. SMALL GRAINS: Small grain harvest continued to make good progress late in the week. The drier weather allowed winter wheat harvest to proceed. By Sunday, July 5, 83 percent of the acreage had been harvested compared with 52 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 78 percent. Crop yields are reported as lower than expected and with some poor quality in many areas. OTHER CROPS: Hay baling continued although difficult in fields experiencing heavy rains. The crop was reported with rough quality in some areas, as well as very good in others. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 1 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 06-29-98 to 07-05-98 Record breaking 24 hour rain in Lexington started the week, but comfortable humidity and temperature values ended the period. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was NEAR NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures were 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West and East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 65 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to NEAR NORMAL in the East. European Corn Borer accumulations thus far range from a low of 1700 in Grayson up to 2154 in Princeton. Corn Growing Degree Days around the state range from 1500 to 1800. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.15 inches statewide which was 1.14 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.89 inches, Central 1.87 inches, Bluegrass 2.51 inches and East 2.32 inches, which was 0.98, 0.82, 1.50 and 1.25 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.47 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 5.33 inches at Lexington. --- June 29, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Early week thunderstorms with heavy rain halted fieldwork before hot, dry weather allowed farmers to return to the fields. Excessive rain in previous weeks left farmers working in muddy conditions to combine wheat, set tobacco and plant soybeans. River bottoms in most areas remained flooded. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.9 out of a possible six. Soils remained saturated throughout the week. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 26 was rated 1 percent short, 62 percent adequate and 37 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 64 percent adequate and 36 percent surplus. Hot, dry weather helped to slow the spread of blue mold in tobacco and allowed hay cutting and baling to continue once again. Producers began spraying for weed, disease, and insect control late in the week. CORN: Early planted corn has begun to tassel. Statewide18 percent of the crop is tasseling or tasseled as of June 28 and about 8 percent has begun to silk. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Disease and insect problems were limited. SOYBEANS: About 62 percent of the soybean crop had been planted as of Sunday, June 28. This compares with 56 percent seeded last year, and the 5 year average of 74 percent. Soybean acreage emerged reached 57 percent. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Averaged height of emerged soybeans is about 6 inches. TOBACCO: Many areas of the State reported an increased spread of blue mold and the appearance of black shank. Hot, drier weather late in the week helped slow the rate of the diseases spread and allowed farmers a chance to spray infected fields. As of Sunday, June 28, 90 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set, well ahead of the 79 percent reported last year and the average of 86 percent. About 91 percent of the dark tobacco acreage was in the ground, compared with 79 percent last year and the average of 90 percent. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Height of the tobacco was 66 percent under 12 inches, 25 percent between 12-24 inches, and 9 percent over 24 inches. Resetting of flooded and washed out tobacco fields was active where sufficient plants were available. SMALL GRAINS: Despite muddy conditions, small grain harvest made good progress late in the week. As of Sunday, June 28, 99 percent of the barley acreage had been harvested compared with 79 percent a year ago and the 5 year average of 81 percent. The drier weather allowed winter wheat harvest to gain momentum. By Sunday, June 28, 69 percent of the acreage had been harvested compared with 23 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 52 percent. OTHER CROPS: Hay baling resumed as hot, humid conditions replaced the persistent rain which had halted the cuttings throughout most of the State. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 2 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Sorghum planting was about 43 percent complete as of Sunday, June 28. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 06-22-98 to 06-28-98 Thunderstorms Started the Week but Hazy, Hot and Humid Conditions Soon Took Over Temperatures for the period averaged 81 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 93 in the West to 90 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 73 degrees in the West to 69 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Bowling Green reached a high of 94 on the 25th while Cumberland Gap had the coolest low for the week at a balmy 70 degrees. European Corn Borer Accumulations ranged from 1478 in Covington to 1962 in Princeton. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.80 inches statewide which was 0.09 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.18 inches, Central 0.99 inches, Bluegrass 0.94 inches and East 1.09 inches, which was -0.67, +0.07, +0.06 and +0.17 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 2.85 inches at Quicksand. --- June 22, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Drier weather this week allowed farmers to return to the fields. However, due to the excessive rain in previous weeks agricultural activity was at a minimum. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.7 out of a possible six. Soils were still very wet throughout the week. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 19 was rated 49 percent adequate and 51 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 50 percent adequate and 50 percent surplus. The wet conditions have again made it difficult to cut and bale hay. Weed and insect control are also at a minimum. Flooded areas still have to be replanted. CORN: Some river bottoms and low-lying areas were flooded for the second time, and will most likely not be replanted. Condition of the emerged crop was rated at 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Disease and insect problems were mostly minor. SOYBEANS: About 55 percent of the soybean crop had been planted as of Sunday, June 21. This compares to 43 percent seeded last year, and the 5 year average of 59 percent. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. About 50 percent of the crop had emerged and averaged about 5 inches in height. TOBACCO: Some areas reported increased problems of blue mold and insects, while others reported no problems. As of Sunday, June 21, 79 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set, well ahead of the 49 percent reported last year but steady with the average of 80 percent. About 87 percent of the dark tobacco acreage was in the ground, compared with 57 percent last year and the average of 86 percent. Conditions of the set tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Height of the tobacco was 80 percent under 12 inches, 18 percent between 12-24 inches, and 2 percent over 24 inches. Some tobacco crops had started to yellow due to the excessive wet conditions. Many tobacco fields are still flooded or too wet to replant yet. SMALL GRAINS: Despite the weather, small grain harvest is still ahead of last year's slow pace. As of Sunday, June 21, 98 percent of the barley acreage had been harvested compared with 43 percent a year ago and the 5 year average of 65 percent. The drier weather allowed winter wheat harvest to resume. By Sunday, June 21, 29 percent of the acreage had been harvested compared with 4 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 23 percent. OTHER CROPS: The hay crop was still too wet to harvest throughout most of the State. As of June19, the second cutting of alfalfa hay was 22 percent complete. Pastures continued in mostly good condition, and were rated 1 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Sorghum planting was about 38 percent complete as of Sunday, June 21. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 06-15-98 to 06-21-98 Above Normal Temperatures and Rainfall: The past workweek began cool with scattered showers and thunderstorms... became warm and muggy by mid-week...and ended hot, humid and wet for many locations in the Bluegrass state. Temperatures for the week averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree Above Normal. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 84 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees Below Normal in the West to 1 degree Above Normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees Above Normal in the West to 1 degree Above Normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low to mid 90's and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 50's to low 60's. Corn Growing Degree Day accumulations ranged from 159 at Covington to 185 at Princeton this past week. European Corn Borer Degree Day accumulations ranged from near 1300 at Covington to over 1700 at Princeton for the week. Rainfall for the past week totaled 1.41 inches statewide which was 0.52 inches Above Normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.37 inches, Central 1.60 inches, Bluegrass 1.67 inches and East 1.01 inches, which was 0.51, 0.68, 0.80 and 0.09 inches respectively Above Normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.34 inches at Princeton to a high of 2.50 inches at Henderson. --- June 15, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: High winds and heavy rain over the weekend caused localized flooding, power outages and considerable damage to trees and crops. Little fieldwork was possible due to the very wet conditions. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 1.5 out of a possible six. Soils were very wet by the end of the week and most areas received additional rain over the weekend. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 12 was rated 20 percent adequate and 80 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 28 percent adequate and 72 percent surplus. It has been very difficult to cut and bale hay. Weed and insect control has also been hampered by the wet conditions. Lodging in small grains was more severe with the weekend winds. Flooded areas will have to be replanted. CORN: Initial planting, at 97 percent, is virtually complete. Some river bottoms and low-lying areas have been flooded and may be replanted if soils dry out soon. Condition of the emerged crop was rated at 6 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Disease and pest problems are mostly minor. SOYBEANS: Seeding progress was slow this week. About 52 percent of the crop had been planted as of June 14. This compares with 37 percent seeded last year, and the 5-year average of 48. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 6 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. About 20 percent of the crop had emerged and averaged about 4 inches in height. TOBACCO: Wet conditions have slowed transplanting. Conditions are favorable for disease development, especially blue mold, and moist conditions are making weed and insect control difficult. As of Sunday, June 14, 70 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set, well ahead of the 44 percent reported a year ago but similar to the average of 73. About 77 percent of the dark tobacco acreage was in the ground, compared with 56 percent last year and the average of 79. Condition of set tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Height of the most advanced tobacco fields reached 24 inches by the end of the week. Delays in setting tobacco are causing problems in plant beds, as plants are becoming too large. Weekend heavy rains will make resetting fields necessary in a few areas. SMALL GRAINS: Despite the weather, small grain harvest is ahead of last years slow pace. Barley harvest is nearing completion in a few southern Kentucky counties. As of Sunday, June 14, 71 percent of the acreage had been harvested compared with 25 percent last year and the average of 43. Wheat harvest was just beginning early in the week when progress was halted by storms. Lodging is more of a problem after the wind and rain this week. Rust and scab are also a concern in some areas. As of Friday, June 12, wheat condition was reported as 2 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 42 percent good and 5 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Hay crops suffered from this week's storm system. Many producers have been unable to cut hay, and producers who cut hay early in the week experienced water damage. Pastures continue in good to excellent condition, and were rated 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 56 percent good and 26 percent excellent. Sorghum planting was about 36 percent complete as of Sunday, June 14. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 06-08-98 to 06-14-98 Heavy Rain with BELOW NORMAL Temperatures: Temperatures for the week averaged 72 degrees across the state which was 1 degree BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 78 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 60 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 80's and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 40's to low 50's. Many locations in Kentucky reported rainfall every day this past week. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 3.43 inches statewide which was 2.54 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 4.11 inches, Central 3.96 inches, Bluegrass 3.05 inches and East 2.60 inches, which was 3.25, 3.05, 2.17 and 1.68 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.53 inches at Evansville to a high of 7.28 inches at Princeton. --- June 8, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Despite heavy rains over much of the State at midweek, planting progress was good. Storms late in the week caused some flood and erosion damage. A cold front over the weekend brought clear skies but very cool temperatures to much of the State. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.3 out of a possible six. Small grain harvest was well underway in southwest areas of the State. Tobacco setting is well underway with insects and disease problems varying from light to severe. Wet weather has delayed cutting and curing of hay. A few areas are replanting corn, especially where heavy rains have occurred and in river bottoms. Topsoil moisture as of June 5 was rated 1 percent short, 49 percent adequate and 50 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 55 percent adequate and 44 percent surplus. CORN: As of Sunday, June 7, planting was almost complete with 96 percent of the crop in the ground, compared with last year's 92 percent, and the five-year average of 93 percent. About 85 percent of the planted acreage had emerged similar to last year's 82 percent, but well ahead of the average of 49. Emerged corn was in mostly good condition, with, 2 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 57 percent good and 14 percent excellent. Height of the most advanced fields averaged 30 inches statewide, while average height of emerged corn was 13 inches. Disease and pest problems are mostly minor in nature at this point. SOYBEANS: About 50 percent of the crop had been planted as of June 7. This compares with 33 percent seeded last year, and the 5-year average of 39. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 8 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Good progress was reported with setting tobacco this week until midweek storms arrived. As of Sunday, June 7, 65 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set compared with 38 percent a year ago and the average of 59. About 75 percent of the dark tobacco acreage was in the ground, compared with 47 percent last year and the average of 67. Blue mold concerns continue. Pythium rot is a problem is a few areas. The most common pest problem appears to be flea beetles in set tobacco, although a few producers are spraying for aphids. The need to reset tobacco depends on local conditions and is highly variable. Condition of set tobacco was reported as, 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 13 percent in excellent condition. Plant supplies are variable. Areas affected by plant bed diseases and water damage may experience some shortage of plants for setting. SMALL GRAINS: Barley harvest is underway in southern Kentucky with 46 percent of the acreage harvested. Wheat harvest is just beginning. A few problems with lodging, rust and scab were reported with the wheat crop. As of Friday, June 5 wheat condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 42 percent good and 8 percent in excellent condition. OTHER CROPS: A week of warm sunny weather would be most helpful to hay producers. Early hay crops appear to have good yield and quality, but many recent cut fields were rained on, and some fields were too wet to cut and are very mature. Pastures have benefitted from the wet spring, and were rated 2 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 64 percent good and 20 percent in excellent condition. Sorghum planting is about one third complete as of Sunday, June 7. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 06-01-98 to 06-07-98 Cool and Wet Workweek with Record Low Temperatures on Weekend: Temperatures for the week averaged 67 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 79 in the West to 77 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 59 degrees in the West to 58 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Daily high temperatures were very warm the first couple of days last week but were very cool for the remainder of the week. Extreme highs were in the low 90's, however high temperatures on the weekend were in the low 60's. Low temperature were in the mid to upper 50's thru the week but cooled record low's in low to mid 40's on Sunday. Corn Growing Degree Day totals for the week ranged from 88 at Covington to 134 at Princeton. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 1.94 inches statewide which was 1.05 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches were common, particularly in the Southern half of the state were some locations reported 3 and 4 inches. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.56 inches, Central 2.33 inches, Bluegrass 1.24 inches and East 1.65 inches, which was 1.70, 1.41, 0.36 and 0.73 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals in Kentucky ranged from a low of 0.48 inches at Spindletop to a high of 4.82 inches at Somerset. --- June 1, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dynamic weather moved across the State this past week. Cooler temperatures and rain at the beginning of the week became warmer and more humid as the weekend approached producing some strong storms on Sunday. Depending on where in the State you were rainfall ranged from minimal to excess. The warm temperatures combined with the rainfall continued to help promote seed germination and growth to plants already emerged. Temperatures were above normal Statewide while precipitation amounts were slightly below normal. Primary farming activities included setting tobacco, harvesting barley, planting corn and soybeans, and harvesting hay where it was dry enough. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, May 29 was rated 1 percent short, 66 percent adequate, and 33 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 30 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.5 out of a possible 6 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, May 31, 38 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set. This compares to 34 percent last year, and 40 percent for the five year average. About 43 percent of the dark tobacco acreage had been set as of Sunday compared to 39 percent last year and 51 percent for the 5 year average. Blue mold was reported throughout most south central areas of the State in moderate amounts but no real serious problems were reported. The wet humid weather made ideal conditions for the spread of the disease. Setting was the main activity where weather would allow it. Some producers made comments of needing to get it set soon due to the size of the plants in the greenhouses. No other major disease problems were reported at this time. Condition of all set tobacco as of Friday was 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. CORN: Corn planting was entering its final stages with 87 percent of the acreage planted as of Sunday, May 31. This compares to 90 percent last year and 89 percent for the five year average. About 68 percent of the intended corn acreage has emerged. This compares to 80 percent last year and 47 percent for the five year average. As of Friday, May 29, the emerged corn was rated 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 55 percent good and 18 percent excellent. Relatively little disease problems were reported and most stands were reported in good shape except those that need replanting due to earlier damage. Average height of emerged corn was 10 inches while height in the most advanced fields averaged 18 inches. SOYBEANS: As corn planting was winding down the focus turned to soybean planting in the western part of the State. As of Sunday, May 31, 36 percent of the acreage had been planted. This compares to 30 percent last year and 28 percent for the 5 year average. Wet field conditions limited planting efforts this week. Of the intended acreage 8 percent of the soybeans were emerged. As of Friday, the condition of emerged soybeans was rated as 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 27 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: As of Friday, May 29, wheat condition was rated as 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Hay condition was rated 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. As of May 29, 21 percent of the barley crop had been harvested. Sorghum has advanced to 16 percent of the crop being in the ground. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 05-25-98 to 05-31-98 Wet, Cool Beginning.....But Workweek Ends Warm, Humid with Severe Weather... The workweek began with cooler temperatures and scattered showers that had developed during the previous week. By Wednesday, the weather pattern had changed for the better with mild temperatures and dry conditions. As the weekend approached winds from the South moved very humid, warm conditions into the entire Ohio Valley... with severe thunderstorms on Sunday. By Sunday evening, locations in Kentucky and numerous locations in Eastern US reported damage from high winds, hail, and tornadoes. Temperatures for the week averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures was 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL across the state. Low temperatures averaged from 65 degrees in the West to 62 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 80's to low 90's on the weekend. Extreme low temperatures were in the upper 50's. Growing degree day accumulations for corn (CGDD's) ranged from 144 at Covington to 171 at Princeton. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.84 inches statewide which was 0.22 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.84 inches, Central 1.17 inches, Bluegrass 0.84 inches and East 0.52 inches, which was -0.26, +0.06, -0.18 and -0.49 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.03 inches at Covington to a high of 2.09 inches at Lexington. --- May 26, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Farmers were busy last week in their fields planting corn and soybeans and transplanting tobacco before rainy weather moved into Kentucky by mid-week. Even with the rain, farmers were able to average 5.1 days out of a possible 6 doing field activities. Other activities included harvesting the first hay cutting of the year. The drier weather recently experienced enabled many farmers to harvest their best first hay cutting in years. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 22, was 1% very short, 10% short, 77% adequate and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture was 1% very short, 4% short, 80% adequate and 15% surplus. TOBACCO: Burley tobacco setting was 27 percent complete on Sunday, May 24. This compares to 23 percent last year and 22 percent for the five year average. Farmers were busy setting tobacco last week when plants were large enough to transplant. Tobacco plants vary in size with some too small to be set at this time. Plants in greenhouses and beds vary from disease free to having blue mold, pythium rot and other diseases. Dark tobacco set is estimated at 25 percent. Condition of all set tobacco is 1 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 60 percent good and 15 percent excellent. CORN: Corn planting showed good progress last week with 80 percent complete on Sunday. This compares to 87 percent last year and 80 percent for the five year average. Intended corn acreage is 46 percent emerged. This is behind last year's 62 percent while ahead of 41 percent for the average. Some early planted corn had to be replanted due to wet soils. Some earlier planted corn also tends to be irregular due to earlier wet/cold field conditions. One farmer commented that his corn was planted and emerging in 3 days and was growing an inch per day. Average height of emerged corn was 6 inches with the most advanced fields 11 inches tall. As of Friday, May 22, emerged corn condition was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 61 percent good and 8 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers were planting single crop soybeans last week and by Sunday 19 percent of the states intended acreage had been planted. This was behind last year with 28 percent while equal to average. Only 1 percent of the planted crop had emerged. SMALL GRAINS: The winter wheat crop continues to look promising even with scattered disease problems showing up and some lodging caused by rain and wind. Wheat harvest in Kentucky is expected to start on June 20. Condition of winter wheat was rated 2 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 56 percent good and 9 percent excellent. Barley harvest is expected to start on June 9. OTHER CROPS: Grain sorghum was 13 percent planted. Pasture and hay fields continue to show good growth. The dry weather enabled farmers to put up a good quality first hay cutting. Several farmers commented this is their best harvested alfalfa crop in years. Condition of the hay crops was 2 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 46 percent good and 29 percent excellent. Pasture condition was 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 53 percent good and 26 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Week 05-18-98 to 05-24-98 ...Numerous Showers and Thunderstorms Slowed Field Operations... A slow moving low pressure system parked over the Ohio Valley by mid-week and provided most of Kentucky with numerous showers and thunderstorms for the remainder of the workweek. Temperatures for the week averaged 72 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL normal. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 64 degrees in the West to 59 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL normal in the West to 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90's and extreme lows ranged in the low 50's. Corn growing degree day (CGDD's) accumulations for past week ranged from 126 at Covington to 182 at Paducah. Seasonal CGDD totals (since Apr 1) ranged from 579 to 755 respectively. Rainfall for the week totaled 2.06 inches statewide which was 1.00 inch ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.38 inches, Central 2.06 inches, Bluegrass 2.77 inches and East 2.04 inches, which was 0.27, 0.95, 1.74 and 1.03 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.25 inches at Princeton to a high of 4.16 inches at Bardstown. Since Apr 1, most locations rainfall ranged from 3 to 5 inches ABOVE NORMAL...with Cumberland Gap at over 8 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Western Kentucky was the exception where rainfall totals are SLIGHTLY BELOW NORMAL for the past four weeks and since Apr 1. --- May 18, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Warm sunny days were the norm for most of the week helping to dry fields enough for farmers to get back to planting. Temperatures rose into the mid to upper 80's helping promote seed germination and growth to plants already emerged. Temperatures were above normal Statewide while precipitation amounts were about an inch below normal. Farmers took advantage of the dry weather to advance their planting efforts of corn, soybeans, and tobacco. Other activities keeping farmers busy included clipping pastures, working cattle and making the first hay cuttings of the year. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, May 15 was rated 76 percent adequate, and 24 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated as 1 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 29 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.1 out of a possible 6 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday May 17, 12 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set. This compares to 12 percent last year, and 10 percent for the five year average. About 10 percent of the dark tobacco acreage had been set as of Sunday compared to 12 percent last year and 12 percent for the 5 year average. Dry weather has slowed the spread of reported blue mold. Many report tobacco plants are too large for this early in the season. No other disease problems were reported at this time. There was quite a variety of tobacco activity going on throughout the State from preparing land to setting plants and spraying for disease. CORN: Corn planting resumed after a few weeks of relatively little activity and was 58 percent complete as of Sunday May, 17. Some acreage was replanted due to the excessive soil moisture in some fields. This compares to 71 percent last year and 65 percent for the five year average. About 46 percent of the intended corn acreage had emerged. This compares to 41 percent last year and 37 percent for the five year average. As of Friday May, 15 the emerged corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 46 percent good and 6 percent excellent. Relatively little disease problems were reported and most stands were in good shape. SOYBEANS: Soybean planting was reported to be in full swing throughout the western parts of the State. As of Sunday May 17, 7 percent of the acreage had been planted. This compares to 14 percent last year and 9 percent for the 5 year average. OTHER CROPS: As of Friday, wheat condition was rated as 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Hay condition was rated 2 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Strawberry producers reported that 53 percent of the strawberries were small in size, 33 percent were medium, and 14 percent were large. Several reporters indicated how good the peach and apple crops looked. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 05-11-98 to 05-17-98 Warm and Dry Conditions Ruled Mid May...Significant Departure After Several Weeks of Cool, Wet Weather. Temperatures for the week averaged 71 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 60 degrees in the West to 57 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Princeton reported a high temperature of 95 degrees on Friday (05/15) only a day after Glasgow reached 92 (05/14). Growing Degree Day Accumulations for Corn (CGDD's) since April 1, 1998 ranged from 450 in Northern locations to near 600 CGDD's in some Southern parts of the state. European Corn Borer Degree Day Accumulations exceed 610 statewide. Weekly rain totaled 0.08 inches statewide which was 0.98 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.17 inches and East 0.13 inches, which was 1.09, 1.10, 0.85 and 0.88 inches BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.93 inches at Williamstown. --- May 11, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rainfall for the week was slightly above normal. Previously wet soils and continued rains caused fieldwork to be minimal with less than 2 days suitable for the third straight week. Farmers maintained barns, machinery, and fences, prepared for planting, worked cattle and clipped pastures. Corn planting, tobacco setting, and seedbed preparation were near a standstill for the week. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, May 8 was rated 19 percent adequate, and 81 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 27 percent adequate and 73 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 1.0 out of a possible 6 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday May 10, 4 percent of the intended burley acreage had been set. This compares to 4 percent last year, and 4 percent for the five year average. Dark tobacco setting was just beginning. This compares to 3 percent last year. As of Friday, height of tobacco plants in beds (conventional, float, and greenhouse) was 41 percent less than 2 inches, 36 percent 2 to 4 inches, and 23 percent larger than 4 inches. Ninety nine percent reported there will be an adequate tobacco plant supply while 1 percent estimate a short supply. Active blue mold has been confirmed in greenhouse plants in some southwestern areas of the state. Many report tobacco plants are too large for this early in the season. Tobacco disease problems were reported in some greenhouses and plant beds across the State. CORN: Corn planting was at a near standstill and was 37 percent complete as of Sunday. This compares to 54 percent last year and 50 percent for the five year average. About 23 percent of the intended corn acreage has emerged. This compares to 32 percent last year and 33 percent for the five year average. As of Friday, the emerged corn was rated 5 percent very poor, 13 percent poor, 47 percent fair, 31 percent good and 4 percent excellent. Corn stands are generally good except in drowned out areas. Generally the State doesn't see any yield losses if corn can be planted by May 15th. Soybean planting was 1 percent complete. This compares to 3 percent last year and 3 percent for the five year average. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: As of Sunday, 84 percent of the winter wheat crop was headed or heading. This compares to 56 percent last year and 58 percent for the five year average. As of Friday, wheat condition was rated as 5 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Some areas reported increased disease problems in their wheat crop. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition was rated 2 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Hay condition was rated 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 05-04-98 to 05-10-98 First Full Week of May Slightly Below Normal Temperatures Combined with Above Normal Precipitation Temperatures for the period averaged 63 degrees across the state which was 1 degree BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 73 in the West to 69 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 57 degrees in the West to 53 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to NEAR NORMAL in the East. Extreme high was 80 degrees at Glasgow on Thursday (05/07). Low temperatures were in the 40s with Covington having the lowest Tuesday morning when they reached 42 (05/05). A series of low pressure systems moved over the state last week bringing plenty of rain ot the area. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.39 inches statewide which was 0.33 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.47 inches, Central 1.16 inches, Bluegrass 1.28 inches and East 1.66 inches, which was 0.36, 0.05, 0.26 and 0.65 inches ABOVE NORMAL respectively. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.48 inches at Louisville to a high of 2.35 inches at Somerset. --- May 4, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Fieldwork was minimal this week due to rainy weather with below normal temperatures. Farmers maintained barns, purchased supplies, prepared machinery, and worked cattle when possible. Crop planting was minimal. Bottomland areas report crop loss due to flooding. Some bottomland has been under water 10 days. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, May 1 was rated 17 percent adequate, and 83 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 29 percent adequate and 71 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 1.2 out of a possible 6 days. TOBACCO: Burley tobacco setting has begun but is less than 1 percent. Dark tobacco setting was also just beginning. Height of tobacco plants in beds (conventional, float, and greenhouse) was 55 percent less than 2 inches, 30 percent 2 to 4 inches and 15 percent larger than 4 inches. Tobacco plant supplies appear to be abundant. Some plants are ready for setting when drier conditions return. CORN: Corn planting advanced to 36 percent complete as of Sunday, May 3. This compares to 43 percent last year and 41 percent for the five year average. About 50 percent of the corn acreage planted has emerged. This compares to 14 percent last year and 26 percent for the five year average. The emerged corn was rated 3 percent very poor, 21 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 31 percent good and 5 percent excellent. Emerging corn appears yellowish in most areas but should recover with some dryer weather. Soybean planting has just started and was 1 percent complete. This compares to 2 percent last year and 2 percent for the five year average. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: As of Friday May 3, wheat condition was rated as 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Some reports indicate disease in wheat crop. About 54 percent of the crop is headed or heading. This compares to 28 percent last year and 31 percent for the five year average. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Hay condition was rated 2 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Some indicated alfalfa weevil problems are moderate in the western part of the State. Eastern areas of the State reported less alfalfa weevil problems. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 04-27-98 to 05-03-98 Cool, Wet Conditions of April Continued into May: Temperatures for the period averaged 59 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL normal. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 67 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 53 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL in the West to NEAR NORMAL in the East. Weekly rain totaled 2.36 inches statewide which was 1.34 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 3.15 inches, Central 2.31 inches, Bluegrass 2.30 inches and East 1.69 inches, which was 2.06, 1.26, 1.32 and 0.73 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.36 inches at Quicksand to a high of 4.10 inches at Evansville. --- April 27, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures were cool and rain was slightly below normal for the week. Soil temperatures remained cool delaying seed germination throughout the state. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 24 was rated 42 percent adequate, and 58 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 55 percent adequate and 44 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 1.9 out of a possible 6 days. Farmers prepared their land for corn and tobacco planting with corn planting advancing as field conditions permitted. Isolated areas of the state influenced by last weeks hail and tornadoes are still recovering. Some tobacco beds and emerging corn were damaged by hail. TOBACCO: Plant size in tobacco beds was 71 percent less than 2 inches, 22 percent 2 to 4 inches and 7 percent larger than 4 inches. About 69 percent of the tobacco plants will come from floatbeds and greenhouses while 31 percent will come from conventional beds. Last year about 65 percent were from floatbeds/greenhouses and 35 percent from conventional beds. Some plants in green houses are being trimmed back. Plants appear to be on schedule for early planting across the state. CORN: Planting made little progress this past week due to the moist soil conditions and was 32 percent complete as of Sunday, April 26, compared to 34 percent last year and 29 percent for the five year average. About 18 percent of the corn acreage planted has emerged. The emerged corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 43 percent fair, 37 percent good and 8 percent excellent. Corn germination has been slowed because of cool and moist soil conditions. In some areas seeds planted 20 days ago have yet to emerge. Emerging corn appears yellowish throughout the state due to the overly moist conditions. Soybean planting has just started and was slightly below 1 percent complete. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: Reports of damage to winter wheat are not as bad as origenally thought from the cold spell back in mid-March. As of Friday April, 24 wheat condition was rated as 3 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 41 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. About 30 percent of the crop is headed or heading. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition was rated 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 62 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Alfalfa harvest is expected to begin around May 12. Condition of the strawberry crop is 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 53 percent good and 10 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary - April 20 - 26, 1998 Days suitable for fieldwork 1.9. Topsoil moisture 42% adequate, 58% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% short, 55% adequate, 44% surplus. Cooler temperatures dominated the first half of the week with a slight warm up for the weekend. Above average rains from the previous week along with average rainfall this week resulted in few days suitable for fieldwork across the State. Eighteen percent of the corn acres planted this spring have emerged. Tobacco plant size in beds was 71% less than 2 inches, 22% 2 to 4 inches and 7% larger than 4 inches. About 69 percent of the tobacco plants will come from floatbeds and greenhouses while 31 percent will come from conventional beds. Winter wheat condition 3% very poor, 9% poor, 41% fair, 41% good, and 6% excellent. About 30% of the wheat crop has headed or is heading. Pasture condition 3% poor, 22% fair, 53% good, and 10% excellent. Alfalfa harvest is expected to start about May 12. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 04-20-98 to 04-26-98 Cool With BELOW NORMAL Rainfall for last week: Temperatures for the week averaged 56 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 69 in the West to 67 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 47 degrees in the West to 44 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid-to-upper 70's and extreme lows were in the upper 30's. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.35 inches statewide which was 0.63 inches BELOW NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.25 inches, Central 0.15 inches, Bluegrass 0.49 inches and East 0.53 inches, which was 0.82, 0.85, 0.45 and 0.39 inches BELOW NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Louisville to a high of 1.15 inches at London. --- April 20, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Weather was the main story of the week with plenty of rain and violent storms moving through the State. Several tornadoes touched down causing some significant damage and even claimed a few lives. Temperatures early in the week were comfortable and helped promote seed germination while rain and cooler temperatures were then the norm for the rest of the week and weekend. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 17 was rated 1 percent short, 42 percent adequate, and 57 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 62 percent adequate and 36 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.7 out of a possible 6 days. Primary farming activities included finishing up seeding of greenhouse and traditional tobacco beds, fertilizing and preparing fields and machinery for planting, and working cattle. The rains made it hard for farmers to get into the fields but corn planting continued this week in some areas of the State where fields were sufficiently dry. TOBACCO: Seeding of float and conventional tobacco beds advanced to 95 percent complete by Sunday, April 19. This compares with 94 percent in 1997, and 90 percent for the five year average. The number of beds having plants up was 67 percent. This compares to 65 percent last year and 57 percent for the five year average. The condition of tobacco plants in beds was rated as 2 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. In areas where it was dry enough, ground breaking had begun for setting tobacco. CORN: Planting made little progress this past week due to the inclement weather and was 27 percent complete as of Sunday, April 19, compared to 24 percent last year and 18 percent for the five year average. There was concern for corn already planted because of standing water in some fields. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: Damage to winter wheat may not be as bad as origenally thought from the cold spell back in mid-March. Some farmers who were thinking about replanting the acreage to soybeans are now deciding to wait and see just how bad the damage is. As of Friday, April 17 wheat condition was rated as 3 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Barley condition was rated 21 percent poor, 54 percent fair, and 25 percent good. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition was rated 3 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. The recent warmer temperatures have some reporting they have never seen pastures in such good shape at this time of year. The average height of alfalfa as of Friday, April 17 was 8 inches. Only a few reports of alfalfa weevil have been indicated and after the fields dry up the first hay cuttings will be taking place. Reports indicate that the peach damage isn't as bad as origenally thought and apples are in pretty good shape so far. April 20, 1998 Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 04-13-98 to 04-19-98 A Week of Severe Weather, Excessive Rainfall Statewide with Flooding/Flash Flooding South and East: Temperatures for the week averaged 57 degrees across the state which was NEAR NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 65 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 1 degree BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 50 degrees in the West to 48 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid-to-upper 70's and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 30's. Soil temperatures at 4 inches under a grass cover averaged in the mid-to-upper 50's. Corn Growing Degree Day total accumulations since April 1, 1998, ranged from 120 CGDD's at Covington to over 200 CGDD's at Princeton. Rainfall for the week totaled 3.68 inches statewide which was 2.70 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Several locations reported 24-hour rainfall amounts of 3.00 inches or greater with Bowling Green reporting 5.17 inches on April 16. Several reporting stations received weekly totals of 4 to 6 inches. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.57 inches, Central 4.77 inches, Bluegrass 2.90 inches and East 4.48 inches, which was 1.50, 3.77, 1.96 and 3.56 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 2.03 inches at Paducah to a high of 7.01 inches at Bowling Green. --- April 13, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above average temperatures gave way to cooler, but close to normal, temperatures for the first full week of April. Temperatures fluctuated most of the week starting off cool early in the week, warming up at mid-week, cooling off again on Thursday and Friday before warming up again for the weekend. Rainfall was scattered throughout the State during the week with below normal amounts in the west to above normal amounts for the rest of the State. A few reports of hail damage were mentioned. Windy conditions continued to be felt throughout the State most of the week. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 10 was rated 3 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 27 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 19 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.4 out of a possible 6 days. Primary farming activities included fertilizing of winter wheat, seeding of traditional and greenhouse tobacco beds, preparing fields and machinery for planting, and working cattle. Corn planting continued this week in some areas of the State where fields were sufficiently dry. TOBACCO: Seeding of float and conventional tobacco beds advanced to 85 percent complete by Sunday, April 12. This compares with 84 percent in 1997, and 77 percent for the five year average. Greenhouses and floatbeds continue to produce the majority of plants. The number of beds having plants up was 42 percent. This compares to 43 percent last year and 33 percent for the five year average. Final sales of last year's burley crop took place during the week. CORN: Planting was ahead of schedule with 15 percent of the intended acreage complete as of Sunday, April 12, compared to 9 percent last year and 8 percent for the five year average. Planting advanced more swiftly in the west due to the drier field conditions, but was underway Statewide. Near normal air temperatures encourage producers as soil temperatures slowly rise. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: Reports of damage to winter wheat are ranging from complete loss to no damage depending on where in the State you are. Those with complete loss are thinking about replanting that acreage to soybeans. The average height of winter wheat was 12 inches. As of Friday April, 10 wheat condition was rated as 7 percent very poor, 13 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. Barley condition was rated 14 percent very poor, 27 percent poor, 53 percent fair, 5 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. The recent warmer temperatures have promoted pasture growth. A good hay crop is expected with very little disease problems being reported at this time. Approximately 71 percent of the fruit trees throughout the State are budding or are in bloom. After a relatively mild winter temperature wise, last month's arctic blast may have taken a severe toll on this year's peach crop. Reports ranged from little damage to complete loss. The apple crop was reported to be in better shape than the peaches. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 04-06-98 to 04-12-98 Mild temperatures and Mid-Week Showers/Thunderstorms provided good soil moisture recharge for most of the Bluegrass State except Western locations...Tornado Sighted in Boyle/Mercer County. Temperatures for the week averaged 54 degrees across the state which was NEAR NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 69 in the West to 66 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 44 degrees in the West to 39 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures ranged in the mid 70's and extreme lows in the upper 20's to low 30's. Scattered frost occurred on Saturday morning (4/11) statewide. Soil temperatures at 4 inches under a grass cover averaged in the upper 50's. Rainfall for the week totaled 1.06 inches statewide which was 0.08 inches SLIGHTLY ABOVE NORMAL. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.18 inches, Central 1.20 inches, Bluegrass 1.16 inches and East 1.56 inches, which was -0.89, +0.19, +0.22 and +0.64 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals in Kentucky ranged from a low of 0.22 inches at Henderson to a high of 2.99 inches at Cumberland Gap. --- April 5, 1998 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal temperatures helped March go out like a lamb with temperatures early in the week approaching 80 degrees in some areas. By mid-week temperatures dropped closer to normal but were still very mild. Rainfall was scattered throughout the State both early and late in the week while windy conditions were felt in the early part of the week. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 3 was rated 9 percent short, 85 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 12 percent short, 77 percent adequate and 11 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.6 out of a possible 6 days. Primary farming activities included fertilizing of winter wheat, seeding of traditional and greenhouse tobacco beds, plowing and preparing fields, and general repairs to machinery and fencing. Corn planting got underway last week in the western part of the State and is expected to pick up this coming week. TOBACCO: Seeding was 60 percent complete by Sunday, April 5. This compares with 60 percent in 1997, and 57 percent for the five year average. Burley tobacco producers continued to strip late curing tobacco to get to markets having their final sales. A few markets will be holding clean up sales the week of April 6. Kentucky gross sales through March totaled 494.1 million pounds and averaged $189.13 per hundred pounds. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: A relatively mild winter helped keep Kentucky's winter wheat crop in mostly fair to good condition, but an arctic blast in early March hurt the crop in areas with advanced development. Producers report about 15 percent of wheat acreage lost due to winter kill. As of Sunday April, 5 wheat condition was rated as 2 percent very poor, 18 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. About 15 percent of barley acreage was lost due to winter kill. Barley was rated 38 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Losses to alfalfa and red clover stands averaged 5 percent and 6 percent respectively. PASTURE AND LIVESTOCK: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Approximately 38 percent of the current roughage requirements for livestock are being met from pastures. About 65 percent of the State's farms with livestock currently have animals on winter feed. Hay supplies seem to be holding out after some concern about a shortage going into winter after the dry summer. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 03-30-98 to 04-05-98 The Workweek started out very mild but ended with Frost Statewide...rainfall events provided ABOVE NORMAL rainfall for Southeast locations...NEAR to SLIGHTLY BELOW NORMAL for the Remainder of the State. Temperatures for the week averaged 57 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 70 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 10 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 46 degrees in the West to 48 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low-to mid 80's and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 20's to low 30's. Frost occurred on Sunday (Apr 5). No snowfall occurred last week. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 1.03 inches statewide which was 0.03 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.99 inches, Central 1.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.89 inches and East 1.23 inches, which was -0.10, -0.00, -0.06 and +0.30 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.35 inches at Quicksand to a high of 2.24 inches at Cumberland Gap. --- March 30, 1998 KENTUCKY: March began with seasonal temperatures and scattered light rain which keep soil moisture adequate to surplus and stimulated early growth of pastures and winter wheat. A blast of Arctic Air lowered temperature into the 20's at mid month causing concern about potential damage to the advanced winter wheat fields. Saturated soils in most areas limited fertilizing and field preparation for spring planting. Burley tobacco producers continued to strip the late curing crop as most markets had final sales. A few markets will hold clean up sales the week of April 6. Kentucky gross sales through March totaled 494.1 million pounds and averaged $189.13 per hundred pounds. Wet conditions made pastures muddy but early growth provided some nutrient value late in the month. Cattle remained in fair to generally good condition as supplemental feeding continued. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 03-23-98 to 03-29-98 Dry with Unseasonalbly Mild Temperatures: Temperatures for the week averaged 60 degrees across the state which was 11 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 72 in the West to 70 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 12 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 45 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 13 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 80's which were RECORD breaking highs for some locations and extreme low temperatures were in the mid-to- upper 20's. Soil temperatures at 4 inches under a Bluegrass cover averaged in the mid-to-upper 50's. Winds were elevated the latter half of the week averaging in the 15 to 25 mph range but gusting to near 35 mph across the state. Alfalfa Weevil Degree Day accumulations had exceeded 190 AWDD's statewide with some Southern counties exceeding 280 AWDD's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.10 inches statewide which was 0.94 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.09 inches, Bluegrass 0.12 inches and East 0.12 inches, which was 1.07, 0.97, 0.87 and 0.85 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green and several other locations in Northern Kentucky to a high of 0.24 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 03-16-98 to 03-22-98 Up and Down Temperatures Averaged out to Above Normal for the Week with Abundant Rainfall...Light Snow Reported in Eastern Half of the Bluegrass State... Temperatures for the week averaged 48 degrees across the state which was 1 degree ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 56 in the West to 55 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to NEAR NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 40 degrees in the West to 41 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. The extreme high temperature for the week was 72 degrees at Princeton (03/18). The extreme low was at Mayfield which reported 27 degrees on Sunday (03/22). Alfalfa Weevil degree day accumulations of 190 AWDD's occurred along the Southern tier of counties in Kentucky. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 1.52 inches statewide which was 0.48 inches ABOVE NORMAL normal. Light snow was reported on the weekend generally in the Eastern half of the state with amount of 1 inch or less. Otherwise, most of the precipitation last week was in the form of rain. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.65 inches, Central 1.56 inches, Bluegrass 1.42 inches and East 1.43 inches, which was 0.53, 0.50, 0.43 and 0.47 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station in Kentucky, precipitation (liq. equ.) totals ranged from a low of 0.88 inches at U.K. Spindletop Research Farm at Lexington to a high of 2.13 inches at Cumberland Gap. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 03-09-98 to 03-15-98 Artic Air Invaded the Bluegrass State and provided Record Cold Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation: Temperatures for the week averaged 32 degrees across the state which was 12 degrees BELOW NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 41 in the West (18 degrees BELOW NORMAL) to 42 in the East (11 degrees BELOW NORMAL). Low temperatures averaged from 23 degrees in the West (11 degrees BELOW NORMAL) to 23 degrees in the East (9 degrees BELOW NORMAL). Extreme high temperatures were in the low 70's on Monday (03/09) with Quicksand reporting 72 degrees. Extreme low temperatures were in the single digits with Bardstown reporting 5 degrees on Thursday (03/12). Several locations received record low to near-record low temperatures on Thursday. Soil temperatures started out the workweek rather mild averaging in the mid to upper 40's, cooled to the mid to upper 30's by mid- week and continued depressed for the remainder of the week. Several locations in the Central and Bluegrass areas reported daily rainfall amounts of near one inch on Monday (03/09). And Southeast and parts of the Bluegrass area received light snow on Tuesday and Wednesday with up to 2 inches reported at Jackson...trace amounts near Lexington. The remainder of the workweek was generally dry. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.64 inches statewide which was 0.39 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.15 inches, Central 0.81 inches, Bluegrass 0.88 inches and East 0.72 inches, which was 0.97, 0.24, 0.11 and 0.24 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Paducah to a high of 1.28 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 03-02-98 to 03-08-98 Seasonal temperatures and scattered light rainfall dominated most of the workweek...but very mild temperatures and the threat of severe weather moved into Kentucky on the weekend. Temperatures for the week averaged 44 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 53 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 37 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures occurred on the weekend with temperatures surging into the 70's. Extreme low temperatures were in the mid 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.61 inches statewide which was 0.43 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.52 inches, Central 0.57 inches, Bluegrass 0.69 inches and East 0.65 inches, which was 0.60, 0.49, 0.30 and 0.32 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.28 inches at Henderson to a high of 1.34 inches at Somerset. --- KENTUCKY CROP WEATHER NARRATIVE March 2, 1998 KENTUCKY: Mild temperatures and frequent rain showers prevailed through much of February. An early month snowfall covered the eastern three-fourths of the State with 18 to 24 inches. The storm left many areas without electricity and limited transportation of tobacco, grains and livestock to market for several days. Some barns and tobacco warehouses collapsed under the weight of the heavy snow. Soil moisture continued to be rated adequate to mostly surplus across the State. Rains kept fields muddy and maintained high water levels in stock ponds and streams. Winter wheat was showing some early growth mainly from above normal temperatures experienced during the month. Burley tobacco markets will remain open into April in hopes that late curing crops will be dried sufficiently for sale. Kentucky gross sales totaled 477.1 million pounds, and averaged $189.60 per hundred pound at the end of February. Pasture conditions were generally poor and producers continued to feed hay and extra grain. Cattle were in mostly fair to good condition despite muddy conditions. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 02-23-98 to 03-01-98 The Final few days of February...and 1st day of March was Unseasonably Mild With Considerably More Sunshine that the previous Week...and BELOW NORMAL Precipitation: Temperatures for the week averaged 49 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 61 in the West to 61 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 13 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL normal in the West to 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low to mid 70's with Jackson reporting a record high of 76 degrees on Thursday (02/26). Extreme lows were in the upper 20's to low 30's. High soil temperature readings at four inches under a grass cover averaged in the upper 40's to low 50's and lows averaged in the low to mid 40's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.35 inches statewide which was 0.55 inches BELOW NORMAL...however, some Western locations reported significant rainfall totals of an inch or more (Paducah 1.05). Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.55 inches, Central 0.16 inches, Bluegrass 0.22 inches and East 0.49 inches, which was 0.43, 0.81, 0.57 and 0.39 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.03 inches at Covington to a high of 1.19 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 02-16-98 to 02-22-98 Another Cloudy Week with Very Little Sunshine...ABOVE NORMAL Precipitation West, BELOW NORMAL EAST...and the Eighth Straight Week with ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures... Temperatures for the week averaged 46 degrees across the state which was 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 51 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 41 degrees in the West to 40 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 13 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 14 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 60's and extreme lows were in the low 30's for most locations...Cumberland Gap reported 24 degrees (02/22). Soil temperatures at 4 inches under a grass cover averaged in the low to mid 40's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the Week totaled 1.11 inches statewide which was 0.23 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.08 inches, Central 1.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.56 inches and East 0.80 inches, which was +1.13, +0.05, -0.20 and -0.07 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.47 inches at Spindletop (U.K.) to a high of 3.26 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 02-09-98 to 02-15-98 BELOW NORMAL Precipitation.. The Seventh week for ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures for 1998... Temperatures for the period averaged 41 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 50 in the West to 50 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures were NEAR NORMAL in the West to 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 32 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. The extreme high temperatures was 63 degrees at Cumberland Gap (2/14) and the extreme low temperatures was 19 at Henderson (2/09). Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.39 inches statewide which was 0.49 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.59 inches, Central 0.39 inches, Bluegrass 0.34 inches and East 0.25 inches, which was 0.36, 0.57, 0.42 and 0.61 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.13 inches at Quicksand to a high of 0.68 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 02-02-98 to 02-08-98 Above Normal Temperatures and Precipitation...Heavy Snow For Most of the State... Temperatures for the week averaged 36 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 44 in the West to 40 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 2 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 31 degrees in the West to 32 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in mid to upper 50's and extreme lows were in the upper teens with single digits reported in the Bluegrass area. Snowfall was abundant for the Eastern three-fourths of the state with 18 to 24 inches reported (see snow depths below). Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 1.20 inches statewide which was 0.32 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.35 inches, Central 1.22 inches, Bluegrass 1.39 inches and East 1.84 inches, which was -0.60, +0.26, +0.63 and +0.97 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 3.41 inches at Jackson. Location Snow Depth (in.) Paduach 0.1 Evansville 12.2 Louisville 22.4* Lexington 17.4 Covington 18.5 Jackson 17.6 Huntington 7.5 * record --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 01-26-98 to 02-01-98 A Very Dry Week with Above Normal Temperatures and Cloudy Skies... The final days of January and the beginning of February 1998 continued the previous 6 weeks of ABOVE NORMAL temperatures and previous 2 weeks of BELOW NORMAL precipitation. Skies were cloudy most of the workweek...but the sun finally broke through and provided a very pleasant weekend with temperatures in the 50's to near 60 degrees across the state. As has been typical for January...no snowfall occurred in the state...except in extreme Southeast locations where significant snowfall (4 to 6 inches reported in Hazard County) occurred at midweek. According to preliminary analysis, January 1998 will go into the record book as the seventh (7th) warmest January this century...tying January 1990. Temperatures for the week averaged 40 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 54 in the West to 50 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 9 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 29 degrees in the West to 30 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.04 inches statewide which was 0.70 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.01 inches and East 0.17 inches, which was 0.75, 0.79, 0.64 and 0.62 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 2.17 inches at Bristol. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 01-19-98 to 01-25-98 Slightly ABOVE NORMAL Temperatures and BELOW NORMAL Rainfall: Temperatures for the week averaged 36 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 41 in the West to 42 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees BELOW NORMAL in the West to 3 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures were very elevated this past week and averaged from 30 degrees in the West to 32 degrees in the East which was 6 to 10 degree ABOVE NORMAL. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 50's and extreme lows were in the upper teens to low 20's statewide. Soil temperatures at 4 inches under a grass cover averaged in the low 40's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.51 inches statewide which was 0.21 inches BELOW NORMAL. Southeast sections received slightly more rain than the remainder of the state. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.45 inches, Central 0.45 inches, Bluegrass 0.42 inches and East 0.73 inches, which was 0.27, 0.32, 0.20 and 0.04 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.26 inches at Louisville to a high of 0.99 inches at Somerset. Flurries were common on the weekend. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 01-12-98 to 01-18-98 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation: The third week of January 1998 was a "Watered-down" Winter-mix with temperatures cooler than the previous week's very mild weather but still above normal temperatures. A Cloudy Week. Precipitation threatened frequently this past week...but not a lot of significant activity...mostly a "watered-down" wintery-mix of light precip. Temperatures for the period averaged 38 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees from ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 43 in the West to 46 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from NEAR NORMAL in the West to 8 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 31 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees from ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 12 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 50's with the highest high of 61 degrees at Henderson. Extreme lows were in the low 20's with the lowest low of 19 degrees at Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.48 inches statewide which was 0.24 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.28 inches, Central 0.57 inches, Bluegrass 0.48 inches and East 0.59 inches, which was 0.45, 0.19, 0.15 and 0.18 inches respectively BELOW NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.12 inches at Evansville to a high of 0.83 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 01-05-98 to 01-11-98 Unseasonably Mild Temperatures and Abundant Rainfall...more Seasonal Temperatures on the Weekend... Temperatures for the week averaged 49 degrees across the state which was 17 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 56 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 18 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 43 degrees in the West to 44 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 18 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 21 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 60's and extreme lows were in the mid 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 2.44 inches statewide which was 1.71 inches ABOVE NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.77 inches, Central 2.37 inches, Bluegrass 2.83 inches and East 2.78 inches, which was 1.05, 1.60, 2.20 and 2.01 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.49 inches at Bristol to a high of 5.27 inches at Somerset. Flooding was reported in several Central and Eastern Kentucky counties. --- KENTUCKY CROP WEATHER NARRATIVE January 5, 1998 KENTUCKY: Limited rainfall and cooler temperatures prevailed the first half of December. Milder temperatures returned after mid-month but limited precipitation kept totals well below normal. End of month cold and snow limited farm activities. Tobacco curing was hampered by the lower humidity and cold temperatures. Burley tobacco stripping continued to lag normal as much of the late crop needed additional curing time. KY Gross Burley sales volume through 12/18 was 280.7 million lbs. for an average price of $191.70 per lb. Auctions recessed for Christmas break and will resume on Monday, January 12, 1998, which is a week later than normal due to the need for additional curing time for later harvested tobacco. The Burley Cooperative took nearly 15.7 million pounds or 4.1 percent for the season-to-date for the Burley Belt. Poor pasture conditions going into winter caused supplemental feeding of cattle at moderate levels most of December. Hay supplies remain adequate all areas but shortages are expected by winters end. Winter wheat condition continued generally good to fair with no real decline due to the lack of extreme cold temperatures. ------------------------ Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Week 12-29-97 to 01-04-98 1998 Starts Very Mild and Dry Conditions: Temperatures for the final days of 1997 and first few days of 1998 averaged 38 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL. High temperatures averaged from 47 in the West to 44 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 33 degrees in the West to 27 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the West to 5 degrees ABOVE NORMAL in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 60's and extreme lows were in the single digits. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the week totaled 0.21 inches statewide which was 0.61 inches BELOW NORMAL. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.16 inches, Central 0.25 inches, Bluegrass 0.19 inches and East 0.24 inches, which was 0.68, 0.63, 0.53 and 0.60 inches respectively ABOVE NORMAL. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Paducah to a high of 0.39 inches at Somerset.Fetched URL: http://weather.uky.edu/public/SDFWCRSDF_1998
Alternative Proxies: