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 originally 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 originally 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
originally 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.
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