January brought near normal temperatures and much above normal precipitation. The majority of the precipitation occurred early in the month as there was heavy rain and some flooding. Kentucky experienced another out-of-season tornadic outbreak, however, this one did not have the destructive results of the ones in December. There were also several snow events with substantial accumulation in parts of the state which contributed to precipitation totals. Precipitation for the month totaled 5.03 inches, 2.2 inches above normal.
Precipitation totals by climate division, West 4.93 inches, Central 5.54 inches, Bluegrass 4.04 inches and East 5.63 inches, which was 1.96, 2.52, 1.6, and 2.73 inches from normal respectfully. Temperatures averaged 33 degrees for the month, near normal. High temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 41 degrees in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 25 degrees in the West to 26 degrees in the East.
Tobacco stripped is at 92%, putting progress on par with historical levels for this juncture.
Winter wheat condition was rated as 1% very poor, 2% poor, 12% fair, 73% good, and 12% excellent.
Heavy precipitation and cold temperatures stunted pasture regrowth throughout the month. As a result, many farmers were relegated to feeding hay, however hay supply remains in good shape at this juncture. The current hay supply is rated as 1% very short, 6% short, 80% adequate, and 13% surplus. Wide swings in temperature and heavy precipitation have put pressure on livestock at times. The current condition of livestock is rated as 1% very poor, 3% poor, 16% fair, 70% good, and 10% excellent.
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Wheat, Tobacco, Weather