March brought above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. Weather for the month has been unstable with some drastic changes. The month started warm and dry giving way to heavy precipitation for a few days. A late season winter storm brought snow accumulation throughout much of the state.
After an upward swing for temperatures, cold weather moved back in. Precipitation for the month thus far totaled 2.69 inches, 1.18 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 3.43 inches, Central 2.68 inches, Bluegrass 2.73 inches and East 1.90 inches, which was 0.69, 1.4, 0.76, and 1.89 inches below normal respectively. Temperatures averaged 50 degrees for the month, 4 degrees warmer than normal. High temperatures averaged from 61 degrees in the West to 61 degrees in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 40 degrees in the West to 39 degrees in the East.
With some occasionally warm weather, pastures were able to rejuvenate and relieve some of the pressure to feed hay. With that said, hay supply remains good overall. The current hay supply is rated as 2% very short, 10% short, 75% adequate, and 13% surplus. Livestock condition was rated as 1% very poor, 3% poor, 17% fair, 69% good, and 10% excellent as periods of milder weather lessened stress on animals. Winter wheat condition was rated as 1% very poor, 1% poor, 19% fair, 69% good, and 10% excellent. It is of note that recent cold weather has raised some concern for the winter wheat crop.
Some spraying and field preparations have begun for row crop farmers when weather permits. Just as with wheat, the recent cold snap poses a threat to early season fruit. Farmers will keep an eye on these crops as notable damage is not yet apparent.
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Weather