By Blake Jackson
Kentucky experienced warmer and drier weather than normal last week. The rainfall was 0.63 inches below normal, and temperatures averaged 8 degrees above normal. Dry conditions continue to impact western and central parts of the state, where moderate drought conditions persist. Southeastern Kentucky received some rain later in the week, which should help improve pasture conditions in the area.
Farmers were able to make good progress with fieldwork last week, thanks to the dry weather. The corn harvest is now 93% complete, and soybeans are 81% harvested. Winter wheat planting is also underway, with 69% of the 2024 crop planted. However, dry conditions have slowed emergence somewhat, and only 47% of the wheat crop has emerged so far. This is down 6% from the five-year average.
The tobacco harvest is also progressing well, with 66% of the crop stripped. Cattle producers in parts of the state impacted by drought are feeding hay due to poor fall pasture growth. Thirty-six percent of pasture is now in either poor or very poor condition. Where drought is the most intense, creeks and other natural water sources for livestock are becoming very low.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Kentucky, Weather