KENTUCKY CROP AND WEATHER REPORT--USDA Listed below are the current USDA Crop & Weather Report/Kentucky Climate Summary AND, in addition, previous week's reports for 2005. 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. Click here for the PDF version. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period December 26, 2005 to January 1, 2006 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: Temperatures for the period averaged 42 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 50 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees above normal in the West to 9 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 34 degrees in the West to 35 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 14 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.42 inches statewide which was 0.50 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.27 inches, Central 0.54 inches, Bluegrass 0.51 inches and East 0.33 inches, which was 0.69, 0.44, 0.31 and 0.56 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Quicksand to a high of 1.30 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period December 19 to 25, 2005 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: Temperatures for the period averaged 33 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 42 in the West to 43 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 24 degrees in the West to 24 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.28 inches statewide which was 0.67 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.19 inches, Central 0.40 inches, Bluegrass 0.35 inches and East 0.20 inches, which was 0.82, 0.63, 0.51 and 0.72 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bristol to a high of 0.70 inches at Williamstown. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period December 12 to 18, 2005 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL PRECIPITATION: Temperatures for the period averaged 35 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 43 in the West to 41 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 30 degrees in the West to 28 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from near normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.65 inches statewide which was 0.30 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.38 inches, Central 0.89 inches, Bluegrass 0.63 inches and East 0.71 inches, which was 0.63, 0.13, 0.22 and 0.21 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 1.17 inches at Nashville. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period Nov 28 to Dec 4, 2005 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND ABOVE NORMAL RAINFALL: Temperatures for the period averaged 39 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 43 in the West to 48 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 31 degrees in the West to 33 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.16 inches statewide which was 0.22 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.91 inches, Central 1.64 inches, Bluegrass 1.03 inches and East 1.04 inches, which was -0.10, +0.64, +0.19 and +0.14 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.03 inches at Mayfield to a high of 2.23 inches at Nolin Lake. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period Nov 21 to 27, 2005 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: Low pressure moved up the east coast at the beginning of the work week to provide light rainfall in Kentucky. Otherwise, cold, high pressure dominated the Bluegrass state for the remainder of the week. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 60's and extreme low temperatures were in the low teens. Temperatures for the period averaged 40 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 51 in the West to 50 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 32 degrees in the West to 31 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.15 inches statewide which was 0.77 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.39 inches, Central 0.09 inches, Bluegrass 0.04 inches and East 0.06 inches, which was 0.60, 0.87, 0.79 and 0.83 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Berea to a high of 0.77 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period November 14 to 20, 2005 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND ABOVE NORMAL RAINFALL: Temperatures for the period averaged 44 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 53 in the West to 54 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 35 degrees in the West to 35 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.35 inches statewide which was 0.43 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.33 inches, Central 1.45 inches, Bluegrass 1.35 inches and East 1.27 inches, which was 0.33, 0.49, 0.52 and 0.38 inches respectively above normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 3.73 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Release Date, Week Ending Date Week ending November 13, 2005 Issue KY-CW4505 This is the last issue of the 2005 Weekly Crop Weather Report. We thank and are most appreciative of the many farmers, county agricultural agents, county FSA offices, soil conservationists, and others who made this report possible by supplying the basic information each week. Thanks to Tom Priddy and the U.K. Ag Weather Center for supplying the weather data for this report. Also, thanks to the agricultural news media for the professional manner in which they distribute agricultural news across the State. Publication of the 2006 series will begin about the first week of April. Agricultural Summary Harvest conditions the second week of November were very good as dry conditions continued across Kentucky. Farmers were busy completing their corn harvest and advancing their soybean harvest. Tobacco stripping however was slowed by lack of moisture in the air. Rain for the week occurred on Sunday with totals across the State generally one-quarter inch or less. Warmer than normal temperatures averaged in the mid-50's. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.2 days out of seven. As of Friday, November 11, topsoil moisture was 50 percent very short, 36 percent short and 14 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was 43 percent very short, 43 percent short and 14 percent adequate. Field Crops Report CORN AND SOYBEANS: With good harvest weather Kentucky farmers made great strides to complete their crop harvest. Combining of corn was complete except for a few scattered fields in the State. This was ahead of last year and the five-year average, both with 99 percent complete. Corn yield as of November 1 was 131 bushels per acre. Farmers indicated a good crop that at harvest produced more bushels than previously expected in many areas of the State. Soybean harvest advanced with the continued dry weather. As of Sunday, November 13, 96 percent of the soybeans had been harvested. This was significantly ahead of 2004 with 76 percent complete and the five-year average with 86 percent. Yields were good and on many farms better than previously expected. The soybean yield as of November 1 was 42 bushels per acre, only two bushels less than the record 44 bushel crop of 2004. TOBACCO: Burley stripping advanced to 41 percent complete, up 5 percent from the previous week. Tobacco stripping has been slowed in many areas of the State due to low humidity levels that delays tobacco going into case. Last year at this time 50 percent of the crop had been stripped compared to the average of 49 percent. Condition of the stripped tobacco was 2 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 60 percent good and 12 percent excellent. Livestock, Pasture and Range Report Winter wheat seeding was 95 percent complete as of Sunday, November 13. This was ahead of 65 percent for 2004 and 84 percent for the five-year average. Germination and plant growth continues to be spotty. Some areas of the State that have adequate moisture have good germination and plant growth while drier areas have poor germination and growth. Condition of the germinated crop was 4 percent very poor, 21 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 37 percent good and 3 percent excellent. Pasture continues to suffer from generally dry soil conditions. It was rated 21 percent very poor, 32 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 8 percent good and 1 percent excellent. Condition of pasture as a whole declined from the previous week. Many farmers fed hay and there have been reports of low stock water supplies in some areas. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period November 7 to 13, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: Another dry, mild workweek. A frontal system moved through Kentucky at mid-week, but was mostly dry. Rainfall occurred on Sunday with rainfall totals generally one-tenth to one-quarter inch, with reports of nearly one inch near Bowling Green. The latest Palmer Drought Index indicated Central and Bluegrass areas were in Moderate hydrologic drought and eastern Kentucky continued in Severe hydrologic drought. Western KY continued near normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 56 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 69 in the West to 67 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 46 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were near 83 degrees at Paduach and extreme low temperatures were in the mid-20's. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.24 inches statewide which was 0.68 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.14 inches, Central 0.54 inches, Bluegrass 0.21 inches and East 0.07 inches, which was 0.86, 0.43, 0.62 and 0.81 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 0.87 inches at Nolin Lake. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Release Date, Week Ending Date Week ending November 6, 2005 Issue KY-CW4405 Agricultural Summary Excellent conditions continued across the State for harvesting corn and soybeans and sowing winter wheat. Warmer than normal temperatures and very little rain was the rule across Kentucky with temperatures averaging 59 degrees, 8 degrees above normal. Rainfall totaled 0.9 inches Statewide, which as 0.59 inches below normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.2 days out of seven. On Friday, November 4, topsoil moisture was rated 37 percent very short, 45 percent short, 17 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 40 percent very short, 43 percent short, 16 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Field Crops Report CORN & SOYBEANS: Corn combining was nearly complete as of Sunday, November 6, slightly ahead of last year and the 5 year average. With the continued dry weather, 87 percent of soybeans were harvested, ahead of last year's 60 percent and the 5 year average of 75 percent. Farmers continued to indicate better than expected yields for double crop soybeans. TOBACCO: Stripped tobacco conditions were rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Due to the lack of natural humidity for curing, some farmers are hauling water to barns. As of Sunday, November 6, 36 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, behind both last year and the five year average. Livestock, Pasture and Range Report Farmers had planted 90 percent of the 2006 winter wheat crop as of Sunday, November 6. This continues to be about a week ahead of the five year average and about two weeks ahead of last year. Farmers indicate that germination is spotty in certain areas and the crop condition is beginning to suffer due to the lack of rain and dry conditions. The crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 24 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 36 percent good and 2 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 18 percent very poor, 36 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 11 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. The percentage of pasture rated poor to very poor increased 10 points from last week. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 31 to November 06, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: A very mild, dry week allowed harvest and other field activities to advance or be completed. Limited rainfall occurred on Tuesday and on the weekend. Severe thunderstorms in the early morning hours of Sunday generated several tornadoes which caused 15 deaths and 160 people injured in western Kentucky (near Hart County) and southern Indiana. The Palmer Drought Index continued to place the eastern half of the state in Moderate and Severe drought. Temperatures for the period averaged 59 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 72 in the West to 70 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 9 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 49 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 9 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.29 inches statewide which was 0.59 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.54 inches, Central 0.21 inches, Bluegrass 0.27 inches and East 0.15 inches, which was 0.41, 0.70, 0.53 and 0.71 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.09 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 31, 2005 SKB 32-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Cool dry weather was the norm across Kentucky during the past week with temperatures averaging 45 degrees, 9 degrees below normal. Farmers reported excellent conditions for harvesting corn, tobacco, and soybeans and planting winter wheat. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.5 days out of seven. On Friday, October 28, topsoil moisture was rated 33 percent very short, 45 percent short, 21 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 35 percent very short, 46 percent short and 19 percent adequate. CORN & SOYBEANS: Combining continued and as of Sunday, October 30, 99 percent of the corn crop was harvested, up from last year and the 5 year average. With the dry weather, 81 percent of soybeans were harvested, ahead of last year’s 56 percent and the 5 year average of 66 percent. Farmers indicate better than expected yields for soybeans. TOBACCO: Stripped tobacco conditions were rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Farmers indicated average weight, but poor quality due to the lack of humidity for curing. As of Sunday, October 30, 23 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, behind both last year and the five year average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers had planted 80 percent of the 2006 winter wheat crop as of Sunday, October 30. This continues to be about a week ahead of both last year and the five year average. Farmers indicate that crop germination is good due to rain received two weeks ago. The crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 37 percent good and 7 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 13 percent very poor, 31 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 13 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Farmers indicated that pastures are in poor condition due to limited rainfall. Livestock are in good condition due to supplemental hay feeding. Hay supplies may be inadequate in some areas this winter because of the poor pasture conditions. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 24 to 30, 2005 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: High pressure anchored over the Ohio Valley last week provided near unlimited access to field operations but also threatened frost for most evenings. Dry weather, low humidities, cool mornings and mild afternoon temperatures were a daily occurrence. By the end of the weekend, most locations had recorded low temperatures in the upper 20's and widespread frost/freeze...ending the growing season for 2005. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 60's. This was the first week with below normal temperatures in over the past 3 months and the 8th week straight with below normal rainfall for the Commonwealth. Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 9 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 59 in the West to 55 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 9 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 34 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 7 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.14 inches statewide which was 0.53 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.06 inches, Bluegrass 0.20 inches and East 0.28 inches, which was 0.68, 0.60, 0.42 and 0.40 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 0.77 inches at Huntington. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 24, 2005 NLB 31-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Warm dry weather continued across Kentucky during the past week with temperatures averaging 61 degrees, 4 degrees above normal. Farmers reported excellent conditions for harvesting corn, tobacco, and soybeans. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.9 days out of seven. On Friday, October 21, topsoil moisture was rated 40 percent very short, 41 percent short and 19 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 40 percent very short, 42 percent short and 18 percent adequate. CORN & SOYBEANS: Combining continued and as of Sunday, October 23, 93 percent of the corn crop was harvested, up slightly from last year and the 5 year average. Sixty-six percent of soybeans were harvested, ahead of last year and the 5 year average. Corn and soybean harvest slowed by weekend rain. TOBACCO: Farmers continue cutting and stripping tobacco. Stripped tobacco conditions were rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. As of Sunday, October 23, 20 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, slightly behind both last year and average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers had planted 70 percent of the 2006 winter wheat crop as of Sunday, October 23. This is about one week ahead of both last year and the five year average. Rain is needed soon for good germination of the crop, late week rain should help in some areas. Pastures were rated 15 percent very poor, 35 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 16 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Farmers indicated that pastures are in poor condition due to limited rainfall. One-third of livestock pr oducers report an inadequate local hay supply for winter needs. Kentucky Weather Summary: October 17 to 23, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: Mostly a dry, very warm week with record and near-record temperatures during the middle and latter half of the workweek. A stalled-out frontal system provided rainfall to mostly northern half of the state on Thursday and Friday, and in the east on Saturday. This week's temperatures continued the warm spell of the past 3 months (14th week straight with above normal temperatures) ...and the 7th week straight with below normal rainfall. Both the Bluegrass area and East sections of the state had dropped into severe hydrologic drought according to the Palmer Drought Index (Oct.17, 2005) Temperatures for the period averaged 61 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 73 in the West to 72 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 49 degrees in the West to 49 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were near 88 degrees and extreme low temperatures were near 37 degrees. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.56 inches statewide which was 0.10 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.42 inches, Central 0.43 inches, Bluegrass 0.80 inches and East 0.58 inches, which was -0.27, -0.23, +0.18 and -0.10 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Nashville to a high of 1.76 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 17, 2005 NLB 30-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Warm dry weather continued across Kentucky during the past week with temperatures averaging 62 degrees, 3 degrees above normal. Farmers reported excellent conditions for harvesting corn, tobacco, and soybeans. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.3 days out of seven. On Friday, October 14, topsoil moisture was rated 30 percent very short, 49 percent short, 20 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was also rated 30 percent very short, 49 percent short, 20 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. CORN & SOYBEANS: Combining continued and as of Sunday, October 16, 88 percent of the corn crop was harvested, up slightly from last year and the 5 year average. As of Sunday, October 16, 97 percent of soybeans had dropped leaves, ahead of last year and same as the five year average, while 80 percent were mature, behind last year and the five year average. Fifty percent of soybeans were harvested, ahead of last year and 5 year average. The soybean crop condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 32 percent excellent. Some farmers are reporting better than expected yields. TOBACCO: Farmers continue cutting and stripping tobacco. Housed tobacco conditions were rated 2 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. As of Sunday, October 16, 13 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, slightly behind both last year and average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers had planted 50 percent of the 2006 winter wheat crop as of Sunday, October 16. This is about one week ahead of both last year and the five year average. Rain is needed soon for good germination of the crop. Pastures were rated 16 percent very poor, 30 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 21 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Farmers indicated that pastures are in poor condition due to limited rainfall. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period October 10 to 16, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: A weak, upper-level low pressure area which stalled over eastern Kentucky provided morning fog, cooler temperatures and limited rainfall at the beginning of the workweek. By Wednesday, the start of a period of above normal temperatures, low relative humidity, sunny days and clear cool nights began and continued through the remainder of the week and into the weekend. This was the 6th week straight with below normal rainfall and the 13th week straight with above normal temperatures. The latest Palmer Drought Index indicated the Bluegrass area and Eastern Kentucky were both in moderate hydrologic drought at the beginning of the workweek. Temperatures for the period averaged 62 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 73 in the West to 71 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from near normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 49 degrees in the West to 52 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged near normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were near 82 degrees and extreme low temperatures bottomed out in the upper 30's. Rainfall for the past 7 days totaled 0.02 inches statewide which was 0.65 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.05 inches, which was 0.69, 0.65, 0.62 and 0.62 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.19 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 11, 2005 SKB 29-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Warm dry weather continued across the majority of Kentucky during the past week with temperatures averaging 66 degrees, 5 degrees above normal. Farmers reported harvesting corn, tobacco, and soybeans. They also began stripping tobacco and planting winter wheat. There was an average of 5.8 days out of seven that fieldwork was possible. On Friday, October 7, topsoil moisture was rated 30 percent very short, 41 percent short, 28 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 31 percent very short, 43 percent short, 25 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. CORN: Combining continued and as of Sunday, October 9, 80 percent of the corn crop was harvested, down slightly from last year and the 5 year average. Ninety-nine percent was mature, the same as last year and the five year average. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, October 9, 94 percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, ahead of last year and the five year average, while 70 percent were mature, behind last year and the five year average. Thirty percent of soybeans were harvested, behind last year but ahead of the 5 year average of 26 percent. The soybean crop condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Some farmers are reporting better than expected yields. TOBACCO: Farmers continue cutting tobacco and some report houseburn in their housed tobacco, but also indicate good curing conditions. Housed tobacco conditions were rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. As of Sunday, October 9, 29 percent of the burley tobacco was ready for stripping and 5 percent had been stripped. SMALL GRAINS: Farmers had planted 25 percent of the 2006 winter wheat crop as of Sunday, October 9. This is ahead of both last year and the five year average of 17 percent. OTHER CROPS: Pastures were rated 13 percent very poor, 35 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 19 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Farmers indicated that pastures are in dire need of moisture and cattle are beginning to suffer due to the poor quality of grass and shortage of quality hay. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period October 3 to 9, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: High pressure settled over eastern U.S. last week and provided the Commonwealth record and near-record high temperatures and mostly dry conditions. Most locations experienced 3 to 4 days with extreme high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s. Rainfall from the remnants of tropical storm Tammy provided scattered rainfall in southeast sections on Thursday...central and east Kentucky on Friday. West and west-central sections of the state stayed mostly dry all week. This was the 5th tropical storm to provided rainfall to sections of Kentucky this year. This was the 5th week in a row with below normal rainfall and the 12th week straight with above normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 66 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 76 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 56 degrees in the West to 57 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.18 inches statewide which was 0.48 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.19 inches, Bluegrass 0.21 inches and East 0.30 inches, which was 0.68, 0.47, 0.42 and 0.37 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 1.11 inches at Huntington. Kentucky & Regional Weather Data for Week ending Oct 9, 2005 - Fall Format ================================================================================ | | | |Relative | Rainfall | Dev. From | Air Temperature |Humidity |==================|==============|=====================|======== | Since Last| Norm Norm | Dev. | Average Weather |Last April Four| Since Last | Wkly. From | Station |Week 1 Wks.| Apr 1 4 Wks.| High Low Avg. Normal|High Low ================================================================================ (Inches) (Degrees Fahrenheit) Bardstown 0.41 26.26 1.00 +1.37 -1.77 87 47 65.9 +5 95 49 Berea 0.50 23.38 1.25 -2.86 -2.10 87 51 65.7 +5 87 48 Bowling Green 0.15 22.99 0.62 -3.29 -2.61 87 50 65.2 +4 -- -- Bristol 0.97 22.56 1.73 +0.32 -1.09 85 47 65.9 +6 -- -- Buckhorn Lake 0.12 12.60 0.26 -12.38 -2.88 87 50 66.4 +6 -- -- Cape Girardeau 0.00 24.30 4.61 -0.26 +1.48 88 37 64.1 +1 -- -- Campbellsville 0.72 24.55 1.50 -5.03 -2.35 87 50 67.4 +6 95 50 Covington 0.03 18.47 2.03 -4.70 -0.62 85 49 63.9 +4 -- -- Cumberland Gap 0.06 14.23 0.78 -12.56 -2.13 87 51 67.9 +8 94 49 Dix Dam 0.04 21.06 0.61 -4.67 -2.38 87 49 67.9 +8 -- -- Evansville 0.00 21.92 2.00 -1.29 -0.71 88 45 64.9 +1 -- -- Glasgow 0.28 28.27 0.88 -0.04 -2.46 87 51 65.9 +4 99 59 Grayson 0.11 20.34 0.80 -3.62 -1.81 87 50 67.8 +8 94 49 Hardinsburg 0.04 21.74 1.64 -4.32 -1.56 87 49 66.3 +5 94 55 Henderson 0.07 21.20 2.85 -2.93 -0.15 87 45 68.1 +5 95 49 Huntington 1.11 21.03 1.80 -3.06 -0.83 87 52 66.0 +6 -- -- Jackson 0.18 21.44 0.69 -4.58 -2.38 87 51 65.8 +6 -- -- Lexington 0.24 18.67 1.13 -6.22 -1.64 87 50 65.0 +5 -- -- London 0.50 19.80 1.49 -4.35 -1.52 87 52 63.9 +4 -- -- Louisville 0.27 22.23 1.71 -2.08 -1.08 87 48 64.8 +3 -- -- Mayfield 0.00 17.03 1.50 -9.74 -2.06 87 45 67.5 +4 94 49 Nashville 0.01 20.89 1.45 -3.53 -1.47 87 52 66.6 +5 -- -- Nolin Lake 0.00 23.10 0.77 -4.77 -2.82 88 48 68.3 +7 -- -- Paducah 0.00 22.56 3.49 -3.53 +0.28 88 43 64.9 +1 91 50 Princeton 0.00 25.07 1.90 -1.06 -1.09 87 44 66.5 +3 97 51 Quicksand 0.10 17.53 0.37 -8.49 -2.70 87 50 67.3 +7 94 49 Somerset 0.23 20.69 1.09 -6.73 -2.39 87 48 65.4 +5 94 49 Spindletop 0.28 14.32 1.27 -10.57 -1.50 87 50 65.2 +5 96 52 Williamstown 0.17 21.20 1.73 -3.45 -1.16 86 47 67.6 +7 94 49 ================================================================================ Missing data estimated by Doppler radar, Midwest Climate Service, and UK Ag Weather Center. World Wide Web URL: http://wwwagwx.ca.uky.edu/ Phone: 859/2577381-245 --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 3, 2005 NLB 28-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dry warm weather dominated the majority of Kentucky during the past week with temperatures averaging 67 degrees. Farmers reported spending most of the week harvesting tobacco, corn, and soybeans. There was an average of 5.9 days out of seven that fieldwork was possible. On Friday, September 30, topsoil moisture was rated 23 percent very short, 41 percent short, 35 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 23 percent very short, 45 percent short, 31 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. CORN: Combining continued and as of Sunday, October 2, 66 percent of the corn crop was harvested, down from 67 percent last year and the 5 year average. Ninety-seven percent was mature. A year ago only 95 percent was mature and the 5 year average was 97 percent. Some farmers report corn yields are better than anticipated. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, October 2, 78 percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 77 percent for 2004 and 78 percent for the 5 year average. Twenty percent of soybeans were harvested, equal to last year and ahead of the 5 year average at 15 percent. Condition of the soybean crop was rated 4 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Farmers continue cutting tobacco and some report houseburn in their housed tobacco. Housed tobacco conditions were rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Ninety-four percent of the burley crop was cut, behind last year’s rate of 95 percent and a 5 year average of 95 percent. Ninety-seven percent of the dark tobacco was cut, compared to 95 percent for 2004 and 96 percent average. OTHER CROPS: Pastures were rated 17 percent very poor, 27 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 23 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Pastures and hay continued to need rain, especially in the Bluegrass and Eastern areas. Hay quality has declined due to hot dry conditions during the season. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period September 26 to October 2, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: Showers and thunderstorms associated with a cold front moved through the Bluegrass state on Monday and again on Thursday. The work week started out with seasonal temperatures but by Thursday, after passage of the second cold front...some of the coolest temperatures of the Fall season moved into Kentucky with high temperatures in the mid 60's and low temperature mostly in the low 40's with some upper 30's in the valley's of eastern Kentucky. By Sunday, temperatures had warmed into the mid 80's. This was the 11th week in a row with above normal temperatures and the 4th week straight with below normal rainfall. At the start of the work week, Eastern Kentucky had moved into severe drought, and the Bluegrass area in moderate drought according to the Palmer Drought Index. Temperatures for the period averaged 67 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 79 in the West to 79 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from +1 degree above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 56 degrees in the West to 56 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.54 inches statewide which was 0.23 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.51 inches, Central 0.50 inches, Bluegrass 0.56 inches and East 0.57 inches, which was 0.27, 0.29, 0.17 and 0.18 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.05 inches at Mayfield to a high of 0.94 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 26, 2005 JOC 27-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dry warm weather dominated the majority of Kentucky during the past week with temperatures averaging 76 degrees. Farmers reported spending most of the week harvesting tobacco, corn, and soybeans. There was an average of 6.3 days out of seven that fieldwork was possible. On Friday, September 23, topsoil moisture was rated 24 percent very short, 43 percent short, and 33 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 23 percent very short, 40 percent short, and 37 percent adequate. CORN: Harvest continued and as of Sunday, September 25, 48 percent of the corn crop was harvested, down from 53 percent last year and the 5 year average. Ninety-five percent was mature. A year ago only 91 percent was mature and the 5 year average was 94 percent. Some farmers are reporting low moisture content in harvested corn. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, September 25, 58 percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 70 percent for 2004 and 61 soybeans were harvested, down from 10 percent last year and the 5 year average of 7 percent. Condition of the soybean crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Reports indicated that the recent dry weather helped farmers harvest tobacco. Housed tobacco conditions were rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Eighty-seven percent of the burley crop was cut, behind last year’s rate of 91 percent and a 5 year average of 90 percent. Seventy-nine percent of the dark tobacco was cut, compared to 89 percent for 2004 and 90 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Pastures were rated 14 percent very poor, 25 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 23 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Pastures and hay continued to need rain. Hay quality has declined due to hot dry conditions during the season. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period September 19 to 25, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: High pressure controlled the Commonwealth's weather for most of the work week. A frontal system stalled out over Kentucky on Tuesday and provided scattered showers along and just south of the Ohio River. The remainder of the work week was very warm and mostly dry. Hurricane Rita hit the Texas/ Louisiana border along the Gulf coast in the early morning hours on Saturday and flooded much of New Orleans for the second time in one month and caused tremendous damage to the Galveston/Houston area. By Sunday, a cold front near Kentucky combined with the remnants of Rita caused widespread rainfall in western sections and scattered rainfall in central Kentucky. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 67 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 10 degrees above normal in the West to 10 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90's and extreme low temperatures ranged in the mid to upper 50's. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.54 inches statewide which was 0.26 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.44 inches, Central 0.33 inches, Bluegrass 0.41 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was +0.62, -0.52, -0.37 and -0.78 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Berea to a high of 1.98 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Weather and Crop Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 12, 2005 JOC 25-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The majority of Kentucky received little or no precipitation during the past week, with temperatures averaging 72 degrees. Farming activities included harvesting tobacco, baling hay, and harvesting corn. There was an average of 6.3 days out of seven that fieldwork was possible. On Friday, September 9, topsoil moisture was rated 11 percent very short, 37 percent short, 49 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 12 percent very short, 38 percent short, 48 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. CORN: Harvest continued this week and as of Sunday, September 11, 15 percent of the corn crop was harvested, down from 25 percent last year, the 5 year average of 26 percent. Seventy-six percent was mature. A year ago and the 5 year average were both 75 percent. Percent of corn at the dent stage or beyond was 95 percent, compared to 94 percent for 2004 and 95 percent for the average. Corn crop condition was 4 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Reports still indicate that rainfall received at the end of August improved pod fill conditions for late-season soybeans. As of Sunday, September 11, 48 percent of the soybeans were yellowing, ahead of last year at 37 and the 5 year average of 39 percent. Seventeen percent have dropped leaves, compared to 19 percent for 2004 and the 5 year average. Condition of the soybean crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Most reports indicate that curing is going well with a few concerns that some tobacco may be curing too fast. Tobacco conditions were rated 6 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Seventy-three percent of the burley crop was cut, behind last year’s rate of 74 percent and equal to the 5 year average. Fifty-two percent dark tobacco was cut, compared to 68 percent for 2004 and 69 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Hay and pasture need rain in order to improve conditions. The quality of cut hay has been reduced due to lack of timely showers. Condition of the hay crop was rated 13 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 23 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 12 percent very poor, with 28 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period September 12 to 18, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: A strong high pressure system provided very warm and dry conditions to the Bluegrass state making last week the 9th week straight with above normal temperatures and the 2nd week with below normal rainfall. Scattered rainfall occurred from a stall-out frontal boundry in west and west-central sections of the state toward the end of the work week. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 81 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from near normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 62 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the past 7 days totaled 0.26 inches statewide which was 0.54 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.76 inches, Central 0.08 inches, Bluegrass 0.16 inches and East 0.04 inches, which was 0.05, 0.77, 0.61 and 0.75 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 0.93 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 12, 2005 JOC 25-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The majority of Kentucky received little or no precipitation during the past week, with temperatures averaging 72 degrees. Farming activities included harvesting tobacco, baling hay, and harvesting corn. There was an average of 6.3 days out of seven that fieldwork was possible. On Friday, September 9, topsoil moisture was rated 11 percent very short, 37 percent short, 49 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 12 percent very short, 38 percent short, 48 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. CORN: Harvest continued this week and as of Sunday, September 11, 15 percent of the corn crop was harvested, down from 25 percent last year, the 5 year average of 26 percent. Seventy-six percent was mature. A year ago and the 5 year average were both 75 percent. Percent of corn at the dent stage or beyond was 95 percent, compared to 94 percent for 2004 and 95 percent for the average. Corn crop condition was 4 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Reports still indicate that rainfall received at the end of August improved pod fill conditions for late-season soybeans. As of Sunday, September 11, 48 percent of the soybeans were yellowing, ahead of last year at 37 and the 5 year average of 39 percent. Seventeen percent have dropped leaves, compared to 19 percent for 2004 and the 5 year average. Condition of the soybean crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Most reports indicate that curing is going well with a few concerns that some tobacco may be curing too fast. Tobacco conditions were rated 6 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Seventy-three percent of the burley crop was cut, behind last year’s rate of 74 percent and equal to the 5 year average. Fifty-two percent dark tobacco was cut, compared to 68 percent for 2004 and 69 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Hay and pasture need rain in order to improve conditions. The quality of cut hay has been reduced due to lack of timely showers. Condition of the hay crop was rated 13 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 23 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 12 percent very poor, with 28 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period September 5 to 11, 2005 A dry September so far this month with slightly above normal temperatures: After a very wet three week period in August, rainfall has been limited and mostly absent since September started in the Bluegrass state. Temperatures for the period averaged 72 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 86 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 61 degrees in the West to 58 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. The extreme high temperatures was 93 at Glasgow and the extreme low temperature was in the mid-50s across the Commonwealth. This was the eight week in a row with above normal temperatures. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.02 inches statewide which was 0.79 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.08 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was 0.82, 0.77, 0.77 and 0.78 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.46 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 6, 2005 KGC 24-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: For the fourth week in a row, rain fell over Kentucky. Remnants of the tropical storm dumped up to 8 inches of rain in some places, causing flooding. The majority of the State received good amounts of precipitation, but some areas remain short for this time of year, especially in the east. After the system passed, farmers topped, sprayed, and harvested tobacco, baled hay, and harvested corn. There was an average of 3.5 days out of seven that were possible for fieldwork. On Friday, September 2, topsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 19 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 11 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 7 percent very short, 34 percent short, 52 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. CORN: Some cornfields suffered lodging from the storm’s wind and heavy rain. Harvest gained momentum after the rain. As of Sunday, September 4, 9 percent of the corn crop was harvested, the same as last year, but behind the 5 year average of 14 percent. Fifty-seven percent was mature. A year ago it was 59 percent, with a 5 year average of 64 percent. Percent of corn in the dent stage or beyond was 88 percent, compared to 90 percent for 2004 and 93 percent for the average. Corn condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: The rain improved pod fill conditions for late-season soybeans. Eighty-seven percent of the crop had set pods, as opposed to 98 percent in 2004 and 94 percent for the 5 year average. As of Sunday, September 4, 26 percent of the soybeans were yellowing, ahead of last year at 24 percent and the 5 year average of 23 percent. Eleven percent had dropped leaves, compared to 9 percent for 2004 and the 5 year average. Condition of the soybean crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. TOBACCO: A couple of places in Western Kentucky reported minor wind damage and flooding from the storm, but most of the crop was doing well. Late tobacco needed the rain, though some tobacco got muddy. Tobacco condition was rated 8 percent very poor, 21 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Only 12 percent of the housed tobacco showed some houseburn, due to high moisture. Half of the burley crop was cut, behind last year’s 63 percent and 59 percent for the 5 year average. Thirty-eight percent of dark tobacco was cut, compared to 56 percent for 2004 and 51 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Hay and pasture conditions improved the most from last week’s rain, because they were suffering the most. The quality of cut hay has been poor due to lack of timely showers. Condition of the hay crop was rated 17 percent very poor, 20 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 28 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 13 percent very poor, with 26 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 26 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Pastures should improve further if the rain continues to come. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period August 29 to September 4, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Much Above Normal Rainfall: ...From Varous Degrees of Drought to Hurricane Katrina in One Week... The work week started out warm and dry, but Hurricane Katrina was positioned just off the Gulf coast...starting to dump tremendous rainfall, high storm surge and causing wind damage...all of historic proportions along the coast. By Tuesday morning, the remnants of Katrine, still of tropical wind force, were positioned near Tenneesse and impacting Kentucky with copious rainfall and wind gusts in southern sections of the state up to 35 mph. By Wednesday morning, the storm had become extratropical and was positioned near the northeast corner of Ohio...with lingering light rain and drizzle in the northeastern section of the Commonwealth. Storm total rainfall amounts ranged from 2 to 4 inches over most of the state, except southeast which had lesser amounts of one half to 1 inch. In west and central sections of the state, where most of the rainfall was received, 4 to 6 inches was common with locally heavier totals of 6 to 8 inches over a smaller swath of the state. Hopkinsville reported one-day total of 6.35 inches on August 30th. The remainder of the week and weekend was dry with seasonal temperatures. The third tropical storm to pass through the Bluegrass state this summer; including Dennis, Cindy and Katrina. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 63 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from +2 degrees from normal in the West to +4 degrees from normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 2.59 inches statewide which was 1.77 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.60 inches, Central 4.23 inches, Bluegrass 2.63 inches and East 0.91 inches, which was 1.80, 3.38, 1.82 and 0.09 inches respectively above normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.17 inches at Quicksand to a high of 5.25 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 29, 2005 KGC 23-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of Kentucky received measurable rainfall which prevented farmers from working in the fields as much. Average days suitable for fieldwork was 5.5 out of a possible seven days. As of Friday, August 26, topsoil moisture was rated 28 percent very short, 31 percent short, 37 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 31 percent very short, 36 percent short, 32 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Before the rain came, most of the farm activity consisted of cutting and housing tobacco, topping and spraying late tobacco, baling hay, and clipping pastures. CORN: Harvest got underway with combining expected to pick up in the next week or two. Three percent of the corn crop was harvested, compared to 4 percent last year and 6 percent for the 5 year average. Variable yields are expected due to the summers dry conditions. Half of the corn was mature, same as a year ago, and above the 5 year average of 47 percent. As of Sunday, August 28, 85 percent of corn was dented, in between the 84 percent for 2004 and the 86 percent for the 5 year average. The condition of the corn crop was 4 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Most farmers with late-season beans appreciated the recent precipitation. Adequate pod fill continues to be a concern, in spite of the rain. As of Sunday, August 28, 82 percent of the soybeans were setting pods, behind last year at 86 and the 5 year average of 85 percent. However, the 17 percent of soybeans with leaves turning yellow are ahead of schedule. Thirteen percent were yellowing a year ago, while the 5 year average was 12 percent. Six percent are dropping leaves, compared to 4 percent for 2004 and the 5 year average. Soybean crop condition was rated 5 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Tobacco conditions were similar to the previous week. As of Sunday, August 28, 7 percent was rated very poor, 19 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 36 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Housed tobacco appears a little light to some producers. Rain hindered the rate of harvest. Thirtyeight percent of the burley crop was cut, behind 52 percent a year ago and 44 percent for the 5 year average. Dark tobacco was 29 percent cut, as opposed to 45 percent for 2004 and 36 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Recent rains helped to green up pastures in most areas of the State. Hay crop conditions were rated at 21 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 16 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Pastures were still rated at 22 percent very poor, with 31 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 14 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period August 22 to Augues 28, 2005 ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND ABOVE NORMAL RAINFALL: After scattered showers and thunderstorms on Monday...mostly dry, hot and muggy conditions occurred for the workweek in the Bluegrass State. By Friday, a weak upper-level low pressure area stalled over the state and provided showers and thunderstorms through the weekend...especially on Sunday. Temperatures for the past 7 days averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 88 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 69 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 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90s and extreme lows were in the mid 60s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.54 inches statewide which was 0.70 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.75 inches, Central 2.02 inches, Bluegrass 1.34 inches and East 1.07 inches, which was 0.96, 1.18, 0.48 and 0.20 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.10 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 5.66 inches at Princeton. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 22, 2005 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Widespread rains crossed the State last week. Although most areas measured some amount of precipitation, western Kentucky received the most rainfall. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.0 out of a possible seven days. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 19 was rated 27 percent very short, 35 percent short, 37 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 30 percent very short, 42 percent short, and 27 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Farm activities included general farm work, cutting and housing of tobacco and preparing for upcoming grain harvest. TOBACCO: Tobacco benefited some from added moisture and as of Sunday, August 21, the condition of tobacco in the field was reported as 7 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Comments were received about black shank being prevalent, but no serious damage was mentioned. One third of the burley crop was cut, behind last year’s 36 percent, but ahead of the average of 29 percent. Dark tobacco was 18 percent cut, compared to 30 percent last year and 24 percent for the 5 year average. CORN: As of Sunday, August 21, one quarter of the corn was mature, compared to 21 percent last year and the 5 year average of 22 percent. Ninetypercent percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, the same as last year and 88 percent on average. Sixty-three percent of corn was dented, compared with 72 percent last year and 68 percent for the 5 year average. The crop condition was reported as 6 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 37 percent good and 14 percent excellent. With the corn crop being pretty much made, the recent rains may not have much impact on yield. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, August 21, 91 percent of the soybeans were blooming, the same as last year and slightly ahead of the 5 year average of 88 percent. Recent rains will help pod fill with three quarters of the soybeans setting pods. A year ago 76 percent were setting pods and the 5 year average for soybeans setting pods was 71 percent. The condition of soybeans was rated 5 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Of the major crops, soybeans are likely to receive the most overall benefit from recent rains. However, additional showers will be needed for continued pod fill. A few comments were received that if conditions do not improve soybeans may be cut for hay, rather than grain. OTHER CROPS: The much needed moisture will benefit the growth of hay and pastures, although cooler weather is also needed. The condition of the hay crop was rated 23 percent very poor, 23 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 18 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Pastures remain in bad shape and were rated 22 percent very poor, 29 percent poor, 36 percent fair, and 13 percent good. There were some comments of hay being fed to supplement pastures and concerns of potential local hay shortages this winter. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period August 15, to August 21, 2005 MUCH ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND ABOVE NORMAL RAINFALL: Numerous showers and thunderstorms returned above normal rainfall to the Bluegrass state last week after 4 weeks of mostly hot, dry conditions. It was also the 5th week in a row with above normal temperatures. Temperatures for last week averaged 80 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 91 in the West to 90 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 72 degrees in the West to 71 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 9 above from normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 90s and extreme low temperatures were near 70 degress. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.29 inches statewide which was 0.44 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.50 inches, Central 1.32 inches, Bluegrass 0.97 inches and East 1.34 inches, which was 0.72, 0.48, 0.11 and 0.47 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.19 inches at Dix Dam to a high of 3.35 inches at Nashville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 15, 2005 KBM 21-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Welcome weekend rain was received in some areas. However, the week was mostly dry with little or no rain and steamy hot heat. Later planted crops particularly have been suffering under the high heat and dry conditions. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.4 out of a possible seven days. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 12 was rated 45 percent very short, 44 percent short, and 11 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 39 percent very short, 43 percent short, and 18 percent adequate. Farm activities included topping, spraying, some cutting and housing of tobacco, and hay harvest. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, August 14, the condition of tobacco in the field was reported as 8 percent very poor, 19 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Even as cutting and housing begins there remain concerns about black shank. Comments received were mixed, from severe to minimal damage. Topping of burley is running close to normal with 67 percent of burley tobacco topped, compared to 65 percent a year ago and the 5 year average of 71 percent. Dark tobacco topping is way ahead of burley, with 81 percent reported topped, the same as 2004, but behind the 5 year average of 88 percent. The burley crop was 11 percent cut, behind last year’s 20 percent and 14 percent on average. Dark tobacco was 8 percent cut, compared to 13 percent last year and 12 percent for the 5 year average. CORN: As of Sunday, August 14, 90 percent of the corn was in the milk stage or beyond, compared to 93 percent last year and the 5 year average of 91 percent. Sixty-eight percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, compared to 75 percent for last year and the 5 year average. Forty-seven percent of corn was dented, compared with 51 percent last year and 50 percent on average. The crop remains in mostly fair to good condition, with 8 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 37 percent good and 10 percent excellent. There were several reports of corn drying up prematurely due to heat and lack of moisture. SOYBEANS: Producers are watching the sky, hoping for rains to aid pod development. As of Sunday, August 14, 81 percent of the soybeans were blooming and 61 percent were setting pods, last year 77 percent were blooming and 59 percent were setting pods. The 5 year average for soybeans blooming and setting pods were 79 and 56 percent respectively. At this point, producers rate the overall crop as mostly fair to good; specifically, the condition of soybeans was rated 7 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Double crop soybeans are showing minimal development, due to the lack of rain to help growth. OTHER CROPS: Continuing lack of moisture has significantly slowed down or halted growth of hay and pastures. The condition of the hay crop was rated 22 percent very poor, 23 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 19 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Pasture condition remains dismal and was rated 27 percent very poor, 30 percent poor, 32 percent fair, and 11 percent good. There were many comments of hay being fed to supplement pastures. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period August 8 to 14, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began with slightly cooler temperatures across the east as light rain and clouds kept temperatures in the 70's. By Tuesday, highs were back in the 90's across the state, with few clouds and light winds. Heat and humidity continued through the week, but afternoon pop up thunderstorms increased in frequency each day. For the weekend, a frontal boundary had moved into the Ohio River Valley bringing widespread showers and thunderstorms, some turning severe. Localized rainfall amounts were over one inch, with most areas getting between 0.50-1.00". Of course, some areas missed out completely and received no rain. On Friday, Lexington, Jackson, and London set record highs of 98, 97, and 94 degrees, respectively. On Saturday, Louisville set a record high of 98 degrees and Jackson set a record high of 95 degrees. The past 4 weeks have seen above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. Temperatures for the period averaged 81 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 94 in the West to 93 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 70 degrees in the West to 68 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 99 degrees in Bowling Green, Glasgow, Grayson, and Princeton. The extreme low was 63 degrees in Princeton and Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.30 inches statewide which was 0.54 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.22 inches, Central 0.10 inches, Bluegrass 0.51 inches and East 0.37 inches, which was 0.57, 0.74, 0.35 and 0.50 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown and Bowling Green to a high of 0.98 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 8, 2005 KGC 20-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Weather in Kentucky continued to be mostly hot and dry. The occasional pop-up shower brought very little rain and did nothing to alleviate the stress on field crops. Irrigated crops are doing better, but water sources are beginning to dry up. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 5, was rated 41 percent very short, 38 percent short, and 21 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 34 percent very short, 40 percent short, and 26 percent adequate. Activity on the farm consisted mainly of topping and spraying tobacco, dropping tobacco sticks, spraying soybeans, cutting hay, and clipping pastures. Due to lack of precipitation, fieldwork for the week averaged 6.4 days out of a possible 7 days. CORN: By now, most of the corn has been made. Some fields that were planted later in the season would benefit from additional rain. For the most part, the corn crop has started to dry. On Sunday, August 7, the corn was rated 5 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 14 percent in excellent condition. Eighty-five percent of the corn crop has reached the milk stage or beyond, not far behind last year’s 88 percent, but ahead of the 5 year average of 83 percent. The percent of corn acres that were in the dough stage or beyond was at 56 percent, below the previous year and the 5 year average of 66 and 62, respectively. Thirty percent of the corn had reached the dent stage, as opposed to 41 percent a year ago, and 32 percent for the 5 year average. SOYBEANS: Rainfall at this stage of development would be greatly appreciated. Without more precipitation, pods may not fill out completely. Soybean condition as of Friday, August 5, was rated 5 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 36 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Seventyeight percent of soybeans were blooming, ahead of 2004 and the 5 year average of 73 percent. The percent of the crop that had set pods was also farther along, at 57 percent of the soybeans. Last year, it was 55 percent, with the 5 year average of 47 percent. TOBACCO: The condition of set tobacco as of Friday, August 5, was 5 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. The percent of burley that was blooming or beyond reached 66 percent, well behind last year’s rate of 78 percent and the 5 year average of 76 percent. Forty-eight percent of burley tobacco has been topped, with a 5 year average of 54 percent. Last year, half the crop had been topped. On the other hand, dark tobacco topped was at 78 percent, compared to 76 percent a year ago and 79 percent for the 5 year average. Several farmers continued to report cases of black shank, and some problems with a few other diseases and insects. Some farms have already started to cut some tobacco in early-maturing fields. OTHER CROPS: As of Friday, August 5, hay condition was rated 15 percent very poor, 20 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 26 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Pastures fared even worse, with conditions that rated 18 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 21 percent good, and only 1 percent excellent. There is concern that more pasture and hay fields will become dormant soon if current weather conditions continue further. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period August 1 to 7, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Sunshine and heat were back in the picture across Kentucky this week. High temperatures Monday through Thursday were in the 90's across the state, with Jackson setting a few record highs. Dew points were generally in the lower to middle 60's, so heat index values were at or below the actual air temperature due to low relative humidity values near 30%. It was still warm outside as livestock heat stress was regularly in the danger category by mid morning until early evening. It was also another dry week across Kentucky. There were very isolated showers during the beginning of the week. A cold front approached the Ohio Valley on Friday bringing more organized activity. Over the weekend, pop up thunderstorms were more numerous, with several producing strong winds and hail. Despite the storms, there were still many areas that again went dry this week. The past 3 weeks have had above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. Temperatures for the period averaged 80 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 93 in the West to 92 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 67 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. The extreme high temperature was 99 degrees in Grayson. The extreme low temperature was 63 degrees in London. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.41 inches statewide which was 0.43 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.22 inches, Central 0.43 inches, Bluegrass 0.70 inches and East 0.31 inches, which was 0.57, 0.42, 0.16 and 0.57 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green, Glasgow, Grayson, Henderson, Jackson, and Lexington to a high of 2.16 inches at Bardstown. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 1, 2005 JMB 19-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The State had excessively hot and dry weather, which stressed crops. Rain is needed to maintain soybean and tobacco growth and quality. Crops that received rain last week are doing well. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 29, was rated 13 percent very short, 39 percent short, 43 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 11 percent very short, 38 percent short, 49 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Fieldwork for the week ending July 29, averaged 5.9 days out of a possible 7 days. It was almost too hot to be out in the field last week, but the primary fieldwork continued to be topping and spraying of tobacco, harvesting hay, and clipping pastures. TOBACCO: Most producers report that the tobacco is doing well. Although with the hot, dry weather there are some parts of the State that tobacco needs rain. There has been very few reports of disease and insect problems in the tobacco. The most common reported disease has been black shank. As of Friday, July 29, the condition of set tobacco was reported as 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Forty-seven percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, which was behind both last year and the 5 year average of 61 percent. Twenty-five percent of burley tobacco has been topped, behind both last year’s 34 percent, and the 5 year average of 36 percent. Dark tobacco topped reached 75 percent, which was ahead of both last year’s 66 percent and the 5 year average of 65 percent. CORN: The corn improved in fields that received rain last week. The corn quality and yield potential has declined in areas of the State that did not receive rain. The condition of the corn was rated 5 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Ninety-six percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 31, just ahead of last year’s 94 percent, and the 5 year average of 91 percent. Fifty-nine percent of corn was in the milk stage or beyond, behind last year’s 73 percent, and the 5 year average of 69 percent. Thirtyfive percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, behind both last year’s 43 percent and the 5 year average of 45 percent. Twelve percent of the corn had reached the dent stage, behind last year’s 18 percent and the 5 year average of 15 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 31, 72 percent of soybeans were blooming, well ahead of last year and the 5 year average of 62 percent. Fifty-one percent of the soybeans were setting pods or beyond. This is ahead of both last year’s 40 percent, and the 5 year average of 34 percent. The soybean condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Soybeans are the crop least affected by the dry weather, but both the single crop and double crop soybeans are in need of rain for continued development. OTHER CROPS: Due to the hot dry summer, some farmers are starting to feed their winter feed supply to the livestock. The hay conditions declined from last week with seventy-five percent of the hay rated fair or worse, compared to sixty-three percent last week. Hay condition as of Friday, July 29 was rated 9 percent very poor, 20 percent poor, 46 percent fair, 21 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Pastures have declined as well, with pasture conditions as of Friday, July 29 rated 9 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 21 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period July 25 to 31, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Heat advisories and excessive heat warnings blanketed the state on Monday and Tuesday as high temperatures climbed into the middle and upper 90's. Dew point readings in the middle to upper 70's forced heat index values to range from 100-110 degrees. The summer livestock stress index was in the emergency and danger categories for several hours these days. Light winds from the southwest provided little relief from the heat. On Wednesday a weak cold front moved into Kentucky. A light band of showers along the front eventually fizzled out over the Bluegrass region of the state. Ahead of the front, numerous thunderstorms popped up across eastern Kentucky. Some turned severe, as they dropped as much as an inch of precipitation across some locales. The weather was dry again during the weekend. Dew points dropped into the lower 60's, and daytime highs returned to more normal levels in the 80's. Eight of the past 10 weeks have had below normal precipitation. Six of the past eight weeks have had above normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 79 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 89 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 67 degrees in the West to 69 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 97 degrees in Covington and Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 57 degrees in Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.13 inches statewide which was 0.93 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.05 inches, Bluegrass 0.12 inches and East 0.31 inches, which was 0.91, 1.06, 0.94 and 0.82 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown, Bowling Green, Covington, Grayson, Hardinsburg, Lexington, Louisville, Mayfield, Paducah, Princeton, Spindletop, and Williamstown to a high of 1.26 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., July 25, 2005 TNS 18-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The much needed rains of the previous week were replaced by temperatures that averaged 5 degrees above normal with increased humidity. A late week storm created winds that caused some wind damage in the central part of the State. The increased heat has created a new demand for additional precipitation. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 22, was rated 5 percent very short, 22 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 9 percent very short, 32 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Fieldwork for the week ending July 22, averaged 4.5 days out of a possible 7 days. The primary fieldwork involved topping and spraying of tobacco, and the harvesting of hay and the clipping of pastures. TOBACCO: Tobacco conditions were mixed across the State. The recent heat has put tobacco under duress again in western Kentucky. Disease presence was limited with the most commonly reported problem affecting the tobacco being black shank. In addition, there was hardly any concern about weed or insect problems. As of Friday, July 22 the condition of set tobacco was reported as 3 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Forty percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, which was behind both last year’s 49 percent and the 5 year average of 46 percent. Nineteen percent of burley tobacco has been topped, behind both last year and the 5 year average at 22 percent. Dark tobacco blooming was 50 percent, which was ahead of both last year and the 5 year average of 48 percent. CORN: The general opinion seems to be that the corn crop will produce normal yield potential barring any other problems after the timely rain. The condition of the corn was rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Ninety-four percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 24, just ahead of last year’s 91 percent, and the 5 year average of 83 percent. Fifty-seven percent of corn was in the milk stage or beyond. This was behind last year’s 58 percent, but ahead of the 5 year average of 54 percent. Twenty-two percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, behind both the 26 percent of last year and the 5 year average of 28 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 24, 70 percent of soybeans were blooming, well ahead of last year’s 57 percent, and even better than the five year average of 48 percent. Forty-six percent of the soybeans were setting pods or beyond. This is ahead of both last year’s 30 percent, and the 5 year average of 22 percent. The soybean condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Soybeans were the crop least affected by the dry weather, but the recent rains and warm conditions have boosted the crops development. OTHER CROPS: Growing conditions for hay were greatly improved but the lingering affects of the long dry spell remain. Hay condition as of Friday, July 22 was rated 4 percent very poor, 19 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 29 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Visually, pasture conditions seem to have experienced the greatest improvement over the past week. Pasture condition as of Friday, July 22 was rated 7 percent very poor, 23 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 27 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period July 18 to 24, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Excessive heat moved in across much of the central US this week, including Kentucky. The week began with the remnants of Dennis still providing light showers and clouds across the state. By Tuesday, southwesterly winds had brought warm and humid air into the region. The unstable atmosphere kick started the development of scattered thunderstorms. Some of the storms did turn severe, knocking down trees and powerlines in the Louisville area early Friday morning. Temperatures were well above normal this week with highs climbing into the 90's by week's end. No records were set, but with dew points in the upper 70's, heat index values were in the 105-110 degree range causing heat advisories and excessive heat watches and warnings to be issued. Temperatures for the period averaged 81 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 3 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 73 degrees in the West to 71 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 95 degrees in Glasgow, Henderson, Louisville, and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 67 in Bardstown, London, and Louisville. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.71 inches statewide which was 0.35 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.57 inches, Central 0.69 inches, Bluegrass 1.02 inches and East 0.54 inches, which was 0.36, 0.42, 0.04 and 0.59 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Princeton to a high of 2.10 inches at Berea. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., July 18, 2005 TNS 17-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain finally covered the State providing much needed relief from the dry soil conditions of the past several weeks. There were some locally heavy rains in the west that caused some tobacco scalding. Generally, however, the rains were intermittent and slow soakers which greatly changed the soil conditions. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 15, was rated 9 percent very short, 23 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 14 percent very short, 26 percent short, 56 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Fieldwork for the week ending July 15, averaged 2.0 days out of a possible 7 days due to the stalled presence of Hurricane Dennis. The majority of farm work revolved around non fieldwork activities such as the preparation of tobacco barns, but there were a few reports of hay baling and hauling, and the clipping of pastures. TOBACCO: Tobacco conditions were mixed across the State. Heavy rains in the west brought some reports of scalding and water wilt while the rest of the State received a beneficial soaking. Disease presence was limited with the most commonly reported problem affecting the tobacco being black shank. The prolonged wet spell has raised some concerns over potential blue mold activity. As of Sunday, July 17 the condition of set tobacco was reported as 6 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Twenty-two percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, which was behind both last year’s 30 percent and the 5 year average of 27 percent. Three percent of burley tobacco has been topped, behind both last year’s 13 percent and the 5 year average of 11 percent. Dark tobacco blooming or beyond was 35 percent, compared with 34 percent for 2004 and equals the 5 year average. CORN: The question seems to be whether the rain came in time to help the majority of the corn crop which was in the silking stage during the dry spell. The condition of the corn was rated 4 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Seventy-nine percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 17, well behind last year’s 88 percent, but ahead of the 5 year average of 75 percent. Twentyfive percent of corn was in the milk stage or beyond. This was behind both last year’s 39 percent, and the 5 year average of 35 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 17, 55 percent of soybeans were blooming, well ahead of last year’s 45 percent, and even better than the five year average of 35 percent. Fifteen percent of the soybeans were setting pods or beyond. This is the same as last year, but slightly ahead of the 5 year average of 12 percent. The soybean condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Soybeans were the crop least affected by the dry weather. Recently germination of planted double-crop soybeans had been a matter of concern until the rains came.

OTHER CROPS: Growing conditions of the hay crop will rebound from the week of rain. Hay condition as of Friday, July 15 was rated 8 percent very poor, 21 percent poor, 43 percent fair, 25 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Pasture conditions in some areas were of such serious concern prior to the rainy spell that some hay was being fed because pastures were so poor. Pasture conditions as of Friday, July 15 was rated 13 percent very poor, 25 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For July 11 to July 17, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Much Above Normal Rainfall: The Bluegrass state went from brown to green last week. Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms dominated the daily weather situation as the remnants of Hurricance Dennis stalled out over the Ohio Valley most of the period. The tropical airmass provided benefical rainfall with locally heavy amounts considerably stalling Kentucky's hydrologic and agricultural drought conditions. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches were common with localized amounts of 5 to 6 inches in the west and south. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 82 in the West to 84 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 71 degrees in the West to 71 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90's and extreme low temperatures were in the low to mid 60's. Rainfall for the week totaled 2.46 inches statewide which was 1.40 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.67 inches, Central 3.03 inches, Bluegrass 2.13 inches and East 2.00 inches, which was 1.74, 1.92, 1.07 and 0.87 inches respectively above normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.71 inches at Bristol to a high of 5.49 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., July 11, 2005 TNS 16-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain continued to be the missing ingredient needed statewide to maintain crop development and to improve crop conditions. Crops are starting to lose yield potential due to the lack of soil moisture. The State received scattered rains in the west, which helped the crops in some areas, but the State still needs a slow soaking rain. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 8, was rated 42 percent very short, 45 percent short, 12 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 31 percent very short, 50 percent short, and 19 adequate. Fieldwork for the week ending July 8, averaged 6.1 days out of a possible 7 days in part due to the lack of rain. The majority of fieldwork included setting up irrigation for tobacco, spraying soybeans, planting double crop beans, baling and hauling hay, and clipping pastures where needed. TOBACCO: Most of the tobacco crop throughout the State has limited disease presence. The most commonly reported problem affecting the tobacco crop was black shank, but one respondent reported blue mold in the central part of the State. Farmers were spot-topping the tobacco that started blooming early. The tobacco condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. As of Friday, July 8, 50 percent of the plants were under 24 inches in height, 40 percent 24-36 inches in height, and 10 percent were over 36 inches. CORN: The corn crop in many areas was twisting and would benefit the most from rain. The condition of the corn was rated 4 percent very poor, 13 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Sixty-six percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 10, well behind last year’s 78 percent, but equals the five year average. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 10, 42 percent of soybeans were blooming, well ahead of last year’s 24 percent, and even better than the five year average of 20 percent. The soybean condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. The soybean crop has been least affected by the dry weather, but recently planted double-crop soybeans will need rain soon for the vigor needed for sustained growth. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvested was 98 percent completed as of Sunday, July 10, just ahead of last year’s 97 percent, and equals the five year average. Farmers had good harvest conditions for wheat, if anything positive can be said for the dry spell. OTHER CROPS: The clear weather allowed farmers plenty of opportunity to bale and haul hay. The condition of the hay crop will probably be affected for the rest of the growing season due to the dry weather. Hay condition as of Friday, July 8 was rated 8 percent very poor, 27 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 21 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Pasture conditions have deteriorated, and the lack of precipitation to replenish stock ponds is starting to concern the State’s livestock producers. Pasture conditions as of Friday, July 8 was rated 15 percent very poor, 32 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 14 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period July 4 to 10, 2005 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation For the fourth time in the past six weeks, temperatures have averaged within one degree of normal. During the week, highs were generally in the upper 80's and lows were in the 60's. Again, it was a dry week for most of the state. Western areas got some much needed rainfall on Monday night as numerous showers associated with a cold front moved across the area. The rain fizzled out as the front reached central portions of the state. On Thursday, eastern Kentucky received rain from the remnants of Tropical Storm Cindy. Central parts of the state were left dry. Statewide precipitation has averaged below normal for 4 weeks in a row, leaving the Bluegrass and Western climate divisions in moderate drought, and the Central division in mild drought. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 90 in the West to 86 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 94 at Glasgow and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 59 degrees in London. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.26 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.38 inches, Central 0.21 inches, Bluegrass 0.11 inches and East 0.32 inches, which was 0.54, 0.90, 0.95 and 0.81 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Louisville, Lexington, and Spindletop to a high of 0.85 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., July 5, 2005 JMB 15-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain continues to be needed statewide to maintain crop development and to improve crop conditions. Crops are starting to lose yield potential due to the lack of soil moisture. The State received scattered rains last week, which helped the crops in some areas, but the State still needs a slow soaking rain. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 1, was rated 38 percent very short, 46 percent short, and 16 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 29 percent very short, 47 percent short, 23 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. With the lack of rain, fieldwork for the week ending July 1, averaged 6.4 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included cutting weeds, baling and hauling hay, and mowing pastures where needed. TOBACCO: Most of the tobacco crop throughout the State has limited disease presence. The most commonly reported problem affecting the tobacco crop was black shank. Farmers were topping the tobacco that started blooming early. The tobacco condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. As of Friday, July 1, 43 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, 44 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 13 percent were over 24 inches. CORN: The corn crop in many areas was twisting in the dry 90 degree heat and would benefit from rain. The condition of the corn was rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 21 excellent. Forty-two percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 3, well behind last year’s 61 percent, and the 5-year average of 47 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 3, 84 percent of the double-crop soybeans have been planted, the same as last year, and slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 82 percent. Soybeans blooming were at 35 percent, well ahead of last year’s 14 percent and the 5-year average of 12 percent. The soybean condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. The soybean crop has been least affected by the dry weather, but recently planted double-crop soybeans need rain soon for germination and growth. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvested was 96 percent completed as of Sunday, July 3, well ahead of last year’s 89 percent, and the average of 90 percent. Farmers had good harvest weather and continue to report good wheat yields. OTHER CROPS: The clear weather allowed farmers plenty of opportunity to bale and haul hay. The second cutting of hay is poor in both quality and quantity due to the dry weather. Pasture condition is deteriorating, and water and pasture rotation is starting to concern the State’s livestock farmers. Pasture conditions as of Friday, July 1 was rated 10 percent very poor, 22 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 25 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period June 27 to July 3, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation There was a little bit more rain across Kentucky this week, but not enough to keep areas from entering a mild drought. With dew points near 70 degrees, mornings began hazy and foggy. By afternoon hours, highs were well into the 90's. A heat advisory was issued for counties west of I-65 on Thursday as air temperatures reached the middle 90's and heat indices topped the 100 degree mark. The humidity and moisture did aid in the development of several summer storms during the daytime hours. Some storms did drop as much as an inch of precipitation under them, but they were hit or miss, so many locations were dry this week. Average statewide precipitation has been below normal for 3 consecutive weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 80 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 91 in the West to 90 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 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 4 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 96 degrees in Glasgow, Paducah, and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 60 degrees in Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.47 inches statewide which was 0.50 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.06 inches, Central 0.28 inches, Bluegrass 0.74 inches and East 0.78 inches, which was 0.82, 0.72, 0.22 and 0.23 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.0 inches at Paducah to a high of 1.50 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 27, 2005 KBM 14-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain is needed statewide to maintain crop development. Topsoil moisture is disappearing as many areas have not received rain for weeks and crops are showing signs of stress. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 24, was rated 33 percent very short, 41 percent short, 25 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 18 percent very short, 45 percent short, 36 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Another mostly rainless week allowed for fieldwork an average of 6.4 out of a possible 7 days. Sunny days were used to harvest small grains, plant late soybeans, and put up hay. TOBACCO: The condition of the tobacco crop slipped somewhat, however; disease problems remain minimal. The set tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. As of Friday, June 24, 51 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, 41 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 8 percent over 24 inches. CORN: The corn condition declined due to dry soil conditions with 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. There were several reports of corn twisting due to lack of moisture. Sixteen percent of the corn has tasseled as of Sunday, June 26, well behind 47 percent for last year and the 5-year average of 34 percent. Nine percent of the corn was silking, compared to 32 percent a year ago and the average of 19 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 26, 70 percent of the double-crop soybeans had been planted, well ahead of both last year’s 57 percent and the average of 59 percent. Producers have wrapped up planting of single-crop soybeans. Emerged soybeans were rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. Average height of emerged soybeans was 12 inches. Recently planted double-crop soybeans will need rain soon for germination. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest swiftly caught up with last year with 67 percent completed as of Sunday, June 26, compared with 66 percent a year ago. The average was 71 percent. Barley harvest is drawing to a close with 97 percent completed by Sunday, June 26, the same as last year and one percent ahead of the average of 96 percent. OTHER CROPS: Sorghum planting is almost complete with 95 percent of the crop planted compared to 86 a year ago and the 5 year average of 91 percent. The clear weather allowed farmers plenty of opportunity to cut and bale hay. Pasture condition is rapidly deteriorating with 9 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 33 percent good, and 4 percent excellent as of Friday, June 24. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period June 20 to 26, 2005 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Warm, dry weather continued across the Bluegrass State for another week. After a pleasant start to the week with lows in the 50's and highs in the lower 80's, summertime heat moved in again. Despite temperatures near 90 degrees, conditions were relatively comfortable as dew points were in the 50's keeping relative humidity values near 30% during the afternoon. By the end of the week, a southerly flow returned to Kentucky bringing more humid air. Highs during the weekend were in the lower to middle 90's. However, with increased amounts of moisture in the air, some isolated thunderstorms did flare up across localized parts of the state. Eastern Kentucky did get some measurable rain on Monday, but most areas remained dry. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 90 in the West to 88 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 64 degrees in the West to 62 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 96 degrees in Grayson. The extreme low temperature was 53 degrees in Covington. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.09 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.23 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.13 inches, which was 0.63, 0.90, 0.88 and 0.78 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at most locations to a high of 0.24 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 20, 2005 JMB 13-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Early week storms swept across the State bringing much needed rain. However, the eastern portion of the State received spotted rains and still remains dry. There were some reports of minor crop damage due to the storms. The latter half of the week was spent spraying for weeds, cutting and baling hay, and harvesting small grains. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.3 out of a possible 7 days. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 17, was rated 15 percent very short, 28 percent short, 53 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 10 percent very short, 30 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. TOBACCO: The majority of the tobacco crop looks good throughout the State, although there were a few reports of disease. Ninety-four percent of the burley tobacco has been set, compared to 87 percent for last year and the five year average. Dark tobacco was ahead of last year’s pace as well, with 99 percent set, compared to 84 percent last year and 92 percent for the five year average. The set tobacco condition was rated 3 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. As of Friday, June 17, 70 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, 25 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 5 percent over 24 inches. CORN: The corn condition improved with the recent rains, with 81 percent rated good to excellent compared with last week’s 77 percent. Emerged corn was rated 3 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 29 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 19, 89 percent of the crop had been planted, well ahead of both last year’s 71 percent and the average of 73 percent. About 85 percent of the soybeans had emerged; also well ahead of last year’s 65 percent and the average of 66 percent. Emerged soybeans were rated 2 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Average height of emerged soybeans was 9 inches. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest was delayed due to the rain with 15 percent completed as of Sunday, June 19, compared with 29 percent a year ago and the average of 37 percent. Barley harvest continued to make good progress with 95 percent complete by Sunday, June 19, compared to 92 percent last year and 91 percent for the average. Yield and quality are generally good to excellent OTHER CROPS: Sorghum planting is well ahead of last year’s 82 percent and the 5 year average of 81 percent, with 90 percent of the crop planted. Hay cutting and baling continues with 45 percent of the second cutting of alfalfa hay complete. Pasture conditions improved with the rain, with 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 10 percent excellent as of Friday, June 17. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period June 13 to 19, 2005 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began with a warm and humid air mass entrenched over the Ohio Valley. Highs were in the upper 80's and lower 90's. Dew points were near 70 degrees. High humidity values allowed live stock heat stress to enter the danger category for several hours on Monday and Tuesday. Also on Tuesday, a vigorous cold front pushed through the state. Nearly every county was under a severe thunderstorm watch. Strong winds and hail were widely reported. The remainder of the week was cool, dry, and sunny. Dew points dropped into the 50's, and high temperatures were in the upper 70's. Other than some early morning dense fog, weather conditions were nearly ideal. Three of the past 4 weeks have had below normal precipitation amounts, and 4 of the last 5 weeks have had below normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 72 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 62 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degree below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 92 degrees at Grayson. The extreme low temperature was 50 degrees at London and Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.44 inches statewide which was 0.45 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.40 inches, Bluegrass 0.87 inches and East 0.46 inches, which was 0.83, 0.52, 0.01 and 0.45 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Mayfield, Paducah, and Princeton to a high of 1.37 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 13, 2005 RPT 12-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Hot and humid weather prevailed over most of Kentucky. This was the first week since April that both temperature and precipitation were above normal. The remnant of tropical storm Arlene brought much needed rain to western Kentucky over the weekend. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 10, was rated 6 percent very short, 33 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 25 percent short, 66 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.3 out of a possible 7 days. Major farm activities during the week included planting soybeans, small grain harvest and setting tobacco. TOBACCO: Tobacco setting was beginning to wind down with 90 percent of burley tobacco set as of Sunday, June 12. A year ago 82 percent was set and the five year average was 80 percent. Dark tobacco was 82 percent set, compared with last year=s 78 percent and the average of 84 percent. The set tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. As of Friday June 10, 89 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, with 11 percent 12-24 inches in height. CORN: Virtually all corn has been planted and almost all of it had emerged by the end of the week. Weekend moisture was welcome and speeded up crop development. Emerged corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. SOYBEANS. Farmers appreciated the needed moisture but will be watching for the next 10 days to see if the tropical storm brought soybean rust spores to the State. As of Sunday, June 12, 85 percent of the crop had been planted, well ahead of both last year’s 64 percent and the average of 66 percent. About 76 percent of the soybeans had emerged, also well ahead of last year’s 54 percent and the average of 55 percent. Emerged soybeans were rated 2 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 29 percent excellent. Average height of emerged soybeans was 6 inches as of Friday, June 10. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest was just beginning with 3 percent completed as of Sunday June 12 compared with 9 percent a year ago and the average of 11 percent. If dry weather develops during the week wheat harvest should be very active. As of Friday, June 10, winter wheat condition was rated 7 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 32 percent excellent. Barley harvest made good progress with 35 percent complete by Sunday, June 12. Yield and quality are generally good to excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pasture conditions benefited from the recent storms and was rated 3 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 12 percent excellent as of Friday, June 10. Sorghum planting was 90 percent complete as of Sunday, June 12. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period June 6 to 12, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The week began with record high heat in the eastern part of the state as high temperatures climbed in to the 90's. The weather pattern was consistent all week. A Bermuda high pressure system located off of the Atlantic coast pumped warm moist air from the Gulf Of Mexico into the Ohio Valley. Highs were in the upper 80's and lower 90's and lows were near 70 degrees all week. Dew points were also high in the upper 60's and lower 70's. Every afternoon, thunderstorms popped up across the state. Storms were slow moving, causing flooding problems as locally heavy rains fell under the storms. Over the weekend, the remnants of Tropical Storm Arlene brought significant rains to the area, which helped ease the mild drought in western Kentucky. This is the first week since the beginning of April that both temperatures and precipitation have been above normal statewide. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 68 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. The extreme high temperature was 94 at Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 61 at Glasgow, Hardinsburg, and Nolin Lake. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.23 inches statewide which was 0.34 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.48 inches, Central 1.19 inches, Bluegrass 0.54 inches and East 0.73 inches, which was +1.62, +0.27, -0.34 and -0.19 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.17 inches at Covington to a high of 2.92 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 6, 2005 RPT 11-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Storm systems at the end of the week brought much needed rain for crop development. These storms were followed by the warmest temperatures of 2005 with highs around the 90 degree mark. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 3 was rated 1 percent very short, 33 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 23 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.0 out of a possible 7 days. Hay harvest continued in full swing until the weekend. Other major farm activities included planting soybeans, finishing up corn planting and transplanting tobacco. Small grain harvest has begun in the southern and western areas. Insect and disease have not been a significant problem so far this season. TOBACCO: Tobacco transplanting continued at a good pace last week with 75 percent of burley tobacco set as of Sunday, June 5. A year ago 61 percent was set and the five year average was 52 percent. Dark tobacco was also 75 percent set, ahead of last year=s 63 percent and the average of 68 percent. The set tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Most producers report good tobacco stands with very little tobacco to be reset. As of Friday June 3, 95 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, with 5 percent 12-24 inches in height. CORN: Planting was 99 percent completed as of Sunday, June 5, the same as last year. The five year average was 95 percent. Nearly 97 percent of the planted corn had emerged, similar to last year=s 95 percent but ahead of the average of 90 percent. Emerged corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. The average corn height was 16 inches, with the most advanced fields at 26 inches. SOYBEANS: Full season bean seeding was in the wind down mode while seeding of double crop beans should begin this week. As of Sunday, June 5, 81 percent of the crop had been planted, well ahead of both last year and the average of 54 percent. About 74 percent of the soybeans had emerged, also well ahead of last year’s 44 percent and the average of 43 percent. Emerged soybeans were rated 1 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, June 3, winter wheat condition was rated 4 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Recent dry weather has been good for small grains. Barley harvest at 13 percent is just underway with good to excellent yield and quality reported. A few wheat fields were harvested late in the week. OTHER CROPS: Pre-weekend rain was very beneficial to pasture condition but some hay was down and will have reduced quality. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 13 percent excellent as of Friday, June 3. Sorghum planting was 85 percent complete as of Sunday, June 5. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period May 30 to June 5, 2005 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Some rain across the northern tier of the state on Monday kept temperatures quite cool there, but by Tuesday a weak high pressure system settled in as highs were near 80 degrees under mostly sunny skies. By mid-week, the weather pattern began to change. A low pressure system that formed over the Gulf of Mexico slowly churned north bringing clouds and precipitation to the area. The rain was generally light, but the low pressure system allowed showers to pop up across the state through Friday limiting activity outdoors. Conditions dried out in time for the weekend, but summer-like temperatures moved in. After dense fog cleared on Saturday morning, highs climbed above normal into the middle and upper 80's. Sunday was the warmest day of the season so far as a record high of 88 degrees was tied in Jackson and Louisville and Lexington hit their first 90 degree day. Dew points near 70 degrees and light winds allowed heat indices to climb into the middle 90's, and livestock heat stress was in the danger category for several hours on Sunday afternoon. Temperatures for the period averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 81 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 59 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 93 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 49 at Convington and Spindletop. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.48 inches statewide which was 0.46 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.61 inches, Central 0.61 inches, Bluegrass 0.24 inches and East 0.47 inches, which was 0.32, 0.36, 0.68 and 0.48 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.09 inches at Spindletop to a high of 1.07 inches at Princeton. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 31, 2005 RPT 10-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: A cold front brought unseasonably cool temperatures for the second straight week, slowing crop growth but providing excellent weather for cutting hay. Very little moisture accompanied this front, allowing areas hit by heavy rains last week to dry out. The western areas of the State would benefit from showers to improve pastures, and speed up crop growth. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 27 was rated 2 percent very short, 25 percent short, 68 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 19 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.8 out of a possible 7 days. Major farm activities included planting soybeans, cutting hay and transplanting tobacco. TOBACCO: Tobacco transplanting caught up to normal last week with 52 percent of burley tobacco set as of Sunday, May 29. A year ago 51 percent was set and the five year average was 48 percent. Dark tobacco was 65 percent set, ahead of last year=s 47 percent and the average of 50 percent. The set tobacco condition was rated 2 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. CORN: Corn planting varies from complete in the west to behind normal in the east. Cool temperatures have slowed growth and germination. Corn producers had seeded 97 percent of their acres as of Sunday, May 29, compared with 98 percent last year, and 91 percent for the average. Nearly 94 percent of the planted corn had emerged, similar to last year=s 92 percent but ahead of the average of 85 percent. Emerged corn was rated 2 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. The average corn height was 11 inches, with the most advanced fields at 19 inches. SOYBEANS: Soybean planting made excellent progress across the State, with 77 percent of the crop in the ground. This is well ahead of last year=s pace of 44 percent and the five year average of 41 percent. As of Sunday May 29, 61 percent of the soybeans had emerged, several weeks ahead of last year’s 35 percent and the average of 32 percent. Emerged soybeans were rated 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 27, winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. A few fields of barley have been harvested. Very little disease or insect problems in the small grains have been reported and wheat crop prospects are good. OTHER CROPS: Lack of rain is starting to impact pasture condition. Farmers rated pastures 3 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 18 percent excellent as of Friday May 27. Hay crop condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Dry weather was beneficial to the hay harvest. Warmer temperatures would have improved curing conditions. As of Sunday, May 29, 60 percent of sorghum acreage had been planted compared to 70 percent planted last year at this time, and the five year average of 46 percent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period May 23 to 29, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation It was another dry week across Kentucky. Most of the rainfall arrived on Monday. The first batch was a band of precipitation that moved south across the bluegrass and eastern parts of the state during the early morning hours. On Monday afternoon, isolated showers popped up again over eastern Kentucky. High pressure settled in during the week keeping skies mostly clear. Highs were generally only in the 60's and 70's. Some rain fell across the state late Friday into Saturday morning, but amounts were less than a tenth of an inch. Dry weather returned for the remainder of the holiday weekend. Temperatures have averaged below normal for two weeks in a row. Temperatures for the period averaged 65 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 79 in the West to 75 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 54 degrees in the West to 53 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 85 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 45 in London. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.19 inches statewide which was 0.87 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.06 inches, Central 0.14 inches, Bluegrass 0.13 inches and East 0.42 inches, which was 1.05, 0.96, 0.89 and 0.59 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green, Mayfield, Paducah, and Princeton to a high of 0.97 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 23, 2005 JMB 9-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The first half of the week brought dry cooler weather, and late week storms swept across the State bringing heavy rain. Most of the State was starting to become dry, and farmers needed the rain. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 20 was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 16 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 81 percent adequate, and 11 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.7 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, May 22, burley tobacco set was at 26 percent, behind both 2004 and the 5 year average at 35 and 32 percent respectively. Dark tobacco set was at 36 percent set, ahead of last year=s 24 percent and the average of 32 percent. The set tobacco condition was rated at 34 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Setting of burley tobacco is about a week behind, although most of the transplants look good. Farmers hope that with the improved soil moisture a lot of tobacco will get set this week. CORN: Corn planting varies, from ahead of schedule in the western part of the State, to slowed planting progess in the east. Corn producers have seeded 94 percent of their acres, as of Sunday, May 22, compared to 95 percent last year, and 86 percent for the average. Emerged corn was reported at 86 percent, ahead of last year=s 85 percent and the average of 78 percent. The rain received last week helped improve corn condition. Corn emerged rated at 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 54 percent good, 20 percent excellent. The average corn height was 6 inches, with the most advance height at 12 inches. SOYBEANS: Single crop soybean planting is in full swing across the State, with 65 percent of the crop planted. This is well ahead of last year=s pace of 33 percent and the five year average of 31 percent. Soybean growth has been slowed in some areas of the State due to cool dry weather, but growth should improve with the rains and a return to normal temperatures. Soybeans emerged is rated at 30 percent, compared to 25 percent last year and the average of 21 percent emerged. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 20, winter wheat condition was rated 4 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Farmers reported very little lodging in the small grains from the heavy rains late last week. Very little disease or insect problems in the small grains have been reported as well. Prospects for small grain yields have been reported as excellent and above average. The winter wheat harvest is expected to begin Friday, June 17, and barley on Tuesday, June 14. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Hay crop condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. The first cutting and baling of hay has begun, although rain has affected the hay crop with delayed cuttings and slower curing rates. As of Sunday, May 22, 40 percent of sorghum acreage had been planted compared to 36 percent planted last year at this time, and the five year average of 32 percent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period May 16 to 22, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The week began with high pressure in control. Days and nights were cool with mostly clear skies and light winds allowing ample time for outdoor activity. By Wednesday, winds had shifted to the south, and a warmer, more humid, air mass moved into the region. Thunderstorms erupted on Thursday. Nearly every county was under a severe thunderstorm watch at some time. Rainfall was heavy and frequent, prompting flood and flash flood watches and warnings to be issued. Some areas in central Kentucky received more than 4 inches of rain. Reports of hail, strong winds, and frequent lightning were numerous. Conditions cleared quickly on Friday, but again some isolated showers popped up in the afternoon. Ideal working conditions returned over the weekend with sunny skies, mild temperatures, and light winds. Temperatures for the period averaged 63 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 78 in the West to 75 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 53 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 6 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 88 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 38 in Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.34 inches statewide which was 0.28 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.62 inches, Central 2.33 inches, Bluegrass 1.17 inches and East 1.24 inches, which was -0.49, +1.22, +0.14 and +0.23 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.22 inches at Paducah to a high of 3.07 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 16, 2005 MLF 8-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Warm dry weather allowed farmers to actively prepare ground and plant their crops. Rain at weeks end was beneficial for newly seeded crops. Temperatures for the period averaged 69 degrees across the State which was 4 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.73 in., 0.33 in. below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 13 was rated 1 percent very short, 28 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 16 percent short, 77 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.8 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, May 15, burley tobacco set was at 10 percent, behind both 2004 and the average at 17 and 15 respectively. Dark tobacco was at 8 percent set, compared with 14 percent last year and the average of 16 percent. Set tobacco was rated at 1 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. The eastern part of the State has reported some problems with pythium in tobacco float beds. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Corn producers have seeded 93 percent of their acres, as of Sunday, May 15, compared to 92 percent last year, and 80 percent for the average. Crop emergence has been slow due to cool weather and crusting of topsoil. Emerged corn was reported at 66 percent, behind last year’s 78 percent and the average of 68 percent. Corn emerged condition rated at 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 59 percent good, 14 percent excellent. Soybeans were 43 percent planted, ahead of last year’s 19 percent and the average of 20 percent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 13, winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Prospects for small grain yields have been reported as excellent and above average. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Hay crop condition was reported at 6 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. As of Sunday, May 15, 30 percent of sorghum acreage had been planted compared to 9 percent planted last year at this time. Strawberries are late this year as a result of the cooler weather from previous weeks. Growers reported 45 percent of their berries as small, 45 percent medium, and 10 percent large. Due to the dry weather, disease and insect problems for all crops have been minimal. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period May 9 to 15, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The beginning of the week was generally dry and warm. Weak fronts brought light, isolated precipitation to western and northern parts of Kentucky. By mid-week, a dome of high pressure began to move east, and southerly winds brought very warm and humid air to the region. Jackson and Paducah set record highs this week as temperatures climbed into the upper 80's and lower 90's. Conditions were much different in northern Kentucky due to a stationary front that had sagged south. That kept highs only in the 60's there on Thursday. By Friday and Saturday, the storm system and cold front moved through Kentucky. Nearly every county was under a severe thunderstorm watch at some time. Most of the rain and storms had tapered off by Saturday night. High pressure returned on Sunday, but it was much cooler with highs only in the 60's. This is second week in a row where the precipitation average has been below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 69 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 80 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from 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 4 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 91 degrees at Glasgow and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 45 degrees at Somerset and Spindletop. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.73 inches statewide which was 0.33 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.16 inches, Central 0.64 inches, Bluegrass 0.75 inches and East 0.38 inches, which was +0.05, -0.47, -0.27 and -0.63 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.12 inches at Jackson to a high of 1.71 inches at Henderson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 9, 2005 JAO 7-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: High pressure dominated weather across the Commonwealth for most of the week. Early week frost advisories were issued throughout many portions of the State as some areas hit record low temperatures. As the pressure moved eastward later in the week, temperatures slowly increased and drier conditions allowed farmers time for fieldwork. Temperatures for the period averaged 56 degrees across the State which was 7 degrees below normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide, 1.06 inches from normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 6 was rated 5 percent short, 83 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 3 percent short, 83 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.0 out of a possible 7 days. Primary farming activities for the week continued to include spreading fertilizer, spraying herbicides, planting corn and soybeans, and preparing ground. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, May 8, tobacco transplants were reported as 34 percent less than 2 inches, 37 percent were between 2 to 4 inches, and 29 percent were larger than 4 inches. Burley tobacco set was at 3 percent while dark tobacco was at 1 percent set. Ninety-five percent of producers reported adequate plants for setting in their area. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Corn producers have seeded 85 percent of their acres as of Sunday, May 8, compared to 87 percent last year, and 74 percent for the average. Some farmers expressed crop emergence concerns after a week of below normal temperatures. Emerged corn was reported at 56 percent, behind last year’s 65 percent and the average of 58 percent. Corn emerged condition rated at 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 53 percent good, 9 percent excellent. Soybeans were 16 percent planted, ahead of last year and the average of 14 percent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 6, winter wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. Wheat headed or heading was reported at only 53 percent due to cool temperatures, compared to 69 percent in 2004, and 75 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was rated 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Pasture growth was minimal due to cooler temperatures. Hay crop condition was reported at 2 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. There were only a few reports of disease problems. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period May 2 to 8, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation High pressure dominated weather across the Commonwealth all week. The Canadian air mass dropped temperatures well below normal for the first week of May. Frost and freeze advisories were issued for temperatures in the 30's on Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Record lows were either set or tied in Paducah, Bowling Green, Louisville, Lexington, Covington, and London on Tuesday morning ranging from 30-37 degrees. Temperatures began to return to near normal levels later in the week as the high pressure moved east, and southerly winds came into the area. Increasing a few degrees each day, highs were in the lower 80's by Sunday. A little bit of rain was measured in northeastern Kentucky, but the remainder of the state was dry as no measurable precipitation fell. The warming temperatures, low humidities, and lack of rain allowed ample time for outdoor activities. Temperatures for the period averaged 56 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 71 in the West to 69 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 41 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 11 degrees below normal in the West to 10 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 84 in Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 30 in Covington and Somerset. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 1.06 inches from normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.01 inches, which was 1.11, 1.11, 1.02 and 1.00 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at most locales to a high of 0.03 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 2, 2005 JAO 6-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Sunny skies and 60 degree temperatures started the week, but a sequence of low pressure systems brought rain and cooler weather to various parts of the State. Portions of eastern Kentucky experienced several threats of early morning frost and received as much as 3 inches of precipitation prompting flash flood watches and warnings. Temperatures for the period averaged 52 degrees across the State which was 9 degrees below normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 1.98 inches statewide, 0.98 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 29 was rated 1 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 35 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 24 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.3 out of a possible 7 days. Primary farming activities for the week continued to include spreading fertilizer, spraying herbicides, planting corn and soybeans, and top dressing wheat. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, May 1, tobacco transplants were reported as 48 percent less than 2 inches, 35 percent were between 2 to 4 inches, and 17 percent were larger than 4 inches. Burley tobacco set was at 1 percent while dark tobacco is ready to set but farmers wait for drier ground conditions. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Corn producers have seeded 70 percent of their acres, as of Sunday, May 1, compared to 77 percent last year, and 65 percent for the average. Corn germination continues to progress as most western farmers reported planting near completion, although excess soil moisture has hindered some areas of eastern Kentucky. Emerged corn was reported at 33 percent, behind last year’s 48 percent and the average of 40 percent. Corn emerged condition rated at 1 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 67 percent good, 7 percent excellent. Soybeans were 7 percent planted, equal to last year’s percentage as well as the average. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, April 29, winter wheat condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Wheat headed or heading was reported at 30 percent, compared to 28 percent in 2004, and 39 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was rated 2 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Forage growth has been aided by the recent wet conditions. Alfalfa weevil has picked up but farmers are ready to cut as soon as the weather permits. Hay crop condition was reported at 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Producers also reported ample supplies of nitrogen fertilizer. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period April 25 to May 1, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The week began and ended with sunny skies and highs in the lower 60's, but a series of low pressure systems during the middle of the week brought lots of clouds, rain, and unseasonably cool temperatures for late April. The first system moved through on Tuesday. There was some clearing by early Wednesday, but light showers again developed. On Thursday, a low pressure system that formed near Texas moved northeast over Kentucky dropping about a quarter of an inch of precipitation. More rain came Friday night into Saturday morning dropping as much as 3 inches across portions of eastern Kentucky prompting flash flood watches and warnings. Temperatures were well below normal this week. Lows dropped into the 30's on several nights, with frost threatening on the weekend. Highs only stayed in the 50's and 60's. Temperatures for the period averaged 52 degrees across the state which was 9 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 62 in the West to 61 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 14 degrees below normal in the West to 9 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 43 degrees in the West to 43 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 6 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 69 degrees at Paducah and Berea. The extreme low temperature was 31 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.98 inches statewide which was 0.98 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.23 inches, Central 2.33 inches, Bluegrass 1.82 inches and East 2.54 inches, which was 0.15, 1.31, 0.87 and 1.60 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.80 inches at Covington to a high of 3.88 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 25, 2005 JAO 5-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Producers had ideal fieldwork conditions the first three days of the week with highs nearing 80 degrees. Clouds and thunderstorms moved in later in the week which dropped temperatures to around 40 degrees and some areas even hit the lower 30’s. The cold air and frost advisories were a slight concern for farmers, but little to no damage problems were reported. Temperatures for the period averaged 60 degrees across the State which was 2 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.80 inches statewide, 0.18 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 22 was rated 1 percent very short, 12 percent short, 75 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 5 percent short, 82 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.4 out of a possible 7 days. Primary farming activities for the week continued to include spraying, ground working, corn planting, top dressing wheat, and moving cattle to pastures. TOBACCO: Plants grown in traditional plant beds were at 5 percent, while 95 percent were seeded in greenhouses and float beds. As of Sunday, April 24 tobacco transplants were reported as 59 percent less than 2 inches, 31 percent were between 2 to 4 inches, and 10 percent were larger than 4 inches. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Corn producers have seeded 60 percent of their acres, as of Sunday, April 24, compared to 70 percent last year, and 52 percent for the average. Germination of corn is progressing well, although reports indicate that the process has been slower in parts of eastern Kentucky. Emerged corn was reported at 20 percent, slightly behind last year’s 31 percent. Corn emerged condition rated at 1 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 63 percent good, 17 percent excellent. Soybeans were 3 percent planted, equal to last year’s percentage and 1 percent ahead of the average. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, April 22, winter wheat condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Wheat headed or heading was reported at 2 percent, compared to 7 percent in 2004, and 11 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 20 percent good, 58 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Rain has helped to invigorate pasture and new seedings of hay. The expected date of the first alfalfa cutting is May 7th. Strawberries are in bloom and crop condition was 3 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period April 18 to 24, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The first three days of the week were ideal for outdoor activities as highs were near 80 degrees and lows were in the 50's each day. Late Wednesday and during the day on Thursday a stationary front sagged south across the state bringing rain to western and eastern areas. Clouds also kept temperatures cooler, but low 80's were still reached in the southern part of the state. Friday morning began with a band of moderate rain moving east. After some minor clearing of the skies in the early afternoon, strong and severe thunderstorms developed ahead of a cold front. Main reports were of hail and strong winds, but a weak tornado was confirmed in Jefferson County. Extremely cold air was ushered in behind the front prompting frost and freeze advisories to be issued. Some lingering rain turned over to sleet and light snow. Temperatures were about 20 degrees below normal on Saturday as highs were only in the 40's. Record lows were set in Jackson and Louisville on Sunday morning when temperatures dropped into the lower 30's. Skies began to clear and temperatures warmed up slightly on Sunday. Temperatures have averaged above normal for 4 weeks. Precipitation has averaged below normal for the past 3 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 60 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 72 in the West to 71 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 50 degrees in the West to 49 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. The extreme high pressure was 83 degrees in Glasgow and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 32 degrees in several locales across the Commonwealth. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.80 inches statewide which was 0.18 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.92 inches, Central 0.62 inches, Bluegrass 0.92 inches and East 0.74 inches, which was 0.15, 0.38, 0.02 and 0.17 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.35 inches at Hardinsburg to a high of 1.87 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 18, 2005 SKB 4-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Highs for the week were generally at or above 70 degrees while nighttime temperatures fell into the 30s in some areas, which prompted a frost advisory for northern and eastern Kentucky, but resulted in little or no damage. A slow moving storm system brought rain to the Commonwealth through the middle of the week, but cleared in time for the weekend. Temperatures averaged 60 degrees, 4 degrees above normal and the third consecutive week for above normal temperatures. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.83 inches statewide, 0.15 inches below normal and the second consecutive week of below normal precipitation. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 15 was rated 1 percent short, 72 percent adequate and 27 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 75 percent adequate, and 24 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.0 out of a possible 7 days. Primary farming activities included planting corn, top dressing wheat, and moving cattle to pastures. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse tobacco seeding was 85 percent complete by Sunday, April 17. This compared with 91 percent in 2004 and the five year average. Tobacco transplants had emerged on 65 percent of the seeded beds and flats, 1 percent ahead of last year, and on target with the five year average. Farmers indicate that transplants are from dime size to quarter size. As of Friday, April 15, the condition of transplants was 1 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. CORN: After two weeks of below normal rainfall, corn planting was in full swing. However, planting was still behind schedule with only 20 percent of the intended acreage planted as of Sunday, April 17 compared to 55 percent last year when ideal planting conditions were present and 35 percent for the five year average. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat improved from last week with the drier weather and was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 23 percent excellent as of Friday, April 15. Barley was rated 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 5 percent fair, 79 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. LEGUMES & PASTURE: Farmers reported the average height of alfalfa was 8 inches as of Friday, April 15. Pasture condition improved from last week with 17 percent of pastures rated excellent compared to 10 percent last week. One percent of pastures were rated very poor, 5 percent poor, 30 percent fair, and 47 percent good. Farmers were moving cattle to the improved pastures during the week. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period April 11 to 17, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week started with mild temperatures and a low pressure system moving into western Kentucky. The storm system was slow moving, so clouds, rain, and thunderstorms lingered across the area through late Wednesday. A severe thunderstorm watch box was issued on Tuesday across western Kentucky because of the inclement weather. A strong high pressure system was in control of the weather through the weekend. At night, skies were clear and winds were light allowing temperatures to fall into the 30's in some areas prompting a frost advisory for northern and eastern Kentucky. Despite the cool mornings, highs were generally at or above 70 degrees making way for another great weekend. Average precipitation has been below normal for 2 consecutive weeks. Average temperatures have been above normal for the past 3 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 60 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 71 in the West to 72 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 48 degrees in the West to 48 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. The extreme high temperature was 84 in Grayson. The extreme low temperature was 37 in Bardstown and Louisville. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.83 inches statewide which was 0.15 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.94 inches, Central 1.03 inches, Bluegrass 0.58 inches and East 0.78 inches, which was -0.14, +0.03, -0.35 and -0.14 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.19 inches at Grayson to a high of 2.00 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 11, 2005 SKB 3-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week began cool, but quickly warmed to the middle and upper 70s throughout most of the week with isolated areas of rain and fog rolling in mid week through Friday. The weather dried out for the weekend, however, and was nearly perfect with sunny skies and light winds. Temperatures were above normal every day this week and averaged 63 degrees, 9 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.39 inches statewide, which was 0.59 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 8 was rated 63 percent adequate and 37 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 66 percent adequate, and 34 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.2 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities for the week included seeding tobacco, spreading manure, applying fertilizer, working livestock and fixing fences. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse tobacco seeding was 70 percent complete by Sunday, April 10. This compared with 86 percent in 2004 and 81 percent for the five year average. Tobacco transplants had emerged on 42 percent of the seeded beds and flats, 8 percent behind last year, and 6 percent behind the average. CORN: Planting was well behind schedule with only 8 percent of the intended acreage planted as of Sunday, April 10 compared to 36 percent last year when ideal planting conditions were present and 17 percent for the five year average. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat that was planted on schedule is doing well, but the wheat that was planted late due to the fall rains is suffering. Farmers report average wheat height at 9 inches. As of Friday, April 8 winter wheat condition was 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Barley was rated 1 percent poor, 8 percent fair, 76 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Fruit trees were reported at 50 percent budding or in bloom, behind last year’s 63 percent and the five year average of 60 percent. Farmers report little or no freeze damage to early blooming fruits. Pasture condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period April 4 to 10, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began slightly cool as Canadian high pressure had dropped low temperatures into the 30's, but by Monday afternoon highs had climbed into the middle and upper 70's. Fair weather continued on Tuesday, with strong southerly winds bumping temperatures into the lower 80's. By mid week, a low pressure center that had been spinning across the central plains began to move its way towards Kentucky. Rain, fog, and isolated thunderstorms affected parts of the Commonwealth through Friday. The weekend was near perfect with mostly sunny skies, light winds, and highs near 80. Temperatures were above normal every day this week, and Jackson set a record high of 82 on Wednesday. Precipitation was once again below normal since rain showers were not widespread. Temperatures for the period averaged 63 degrees across the state which was 9 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 74 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 14 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 51 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 83 in Grayson, Jackson, and Louisville. The extreme low temperature was 36 in Covington, London, and Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.39 inches statewide which was 0.59 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.71 inches, Central 0.46 inches, Bluegrass 0.21 inches and East 0.20 inches, which was 0.36, 0.55, 0.73 and 0.72 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.03 inches at Jackson to a high of 1.21 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 4, 2005 SKB 2-05 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The first week of April had a mix of cold and warm weather combined with lots of rain and a few areas of severe thunderstorms. Average temperatures across the State were 3 degrees above normal at 54 degrees. Precipitation for the period totaled 2.15 inches statewide, which was 1.14 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 1 was rated 40 percent adequate and 60 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 37 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 1.9 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities during the week included seeding tobacco, applying fertilizer, and preparing equipment for planting. Corn planting began in a few areas. Approximately 33 percent of plowing and field preparation for planting was reported as complete. Nitrogen fertilizer supplies were reported to meet 96 percent of anticipated needs. TOBACCO: Traditional plant beds and greenhouse tobacco seeding is behind schedule due to the wet weather. Plant bed and greenhouse seeding was only 50 percent complete by Sunday, April 3. This was down almost 25 percent from last year’s advanced stage at this time. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: Despite a relatively wet winter, Kentucky’s winter wheat crop is in mostly good to excellent condition. Producers reported 6 percent of the wheat lost due to winter kill. As of Sunday, April 3 winter wheat condition was 4 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 65 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Barley acreage lost to winter kill was reported as 8 percent. Barley was rated 1 percent fair, 97 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Losses to alfalfa and red clover stands were 7 percent and 5 percent respectively. PASTURE & LIVESTOCK: Pasture condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 18 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 34 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Only 21 percent of the current roughage requirements were being met from pastures. Some 82 percent of the state’s farms with livestock were still providing winter feed. Producers report that 35 percent of the winter hay supply was still on hand. Livestock were reported in mostly good condition with few losses due to weather. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period March 28 to April 3, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation April showers...the week began with some rain, but it was short lived as high pressure moved in on Tuesday. Skies were clear, so there was abundant sunshine on Tuesday and Wednesday allowing temperatures to warm into the 70's and 80's. Wednesday night into Thursday morning, a cold front passed through the state. Hail reports were issued as some of the thunderstorms turned severe. The inclement weather was short lived as skies were mostly sunny again later on Thursday. A more significant low pressure system arrived in the Commonwealth Friday and Saturday bringing locally heavy rains and isolated thunderstorms. Clear skies returned by Sunday capping off a perfect end to the week. Average precipitation was above normal for the first time in seven weeks. Average temperatures were above normal for the first time in five weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 54 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 66 in the West to 63 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 44 degrees in the West to 44 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 82 degrees in Jackson. The extreme low temperature was 32 in Covington. Rainfall for the period totaled 2.15 inches statewide which was 1.14 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.93 inches, Central 2.04 inches, Bluegrass 1.80 inches and East 2.85 inches, which was 0.83, 1.01, 0.83 and 1.90 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.99 inches at Hardinsburg to a high of 3.45 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period March 21 to 27, 2005 Near Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Precipitation Much of the week was spent under cloudy and foggy conditions. Several low pressure systems tracked across the southeast United States keeping unpleasant weather across Kentucky. Periodic breaks in the clouds allowed the sun to shine bringing temperatures up into the lower 70's in some cases. This was the first full week of spring, and the threat of severe weather came with it. A waterspout and a few severe thunderstorms were reported in western Kentucky over the weekend. After a dry start to the year, flooding once again has become an issue across central and western Kentucky as watches and warnings have been issued. Statewide average precipitation amounts have averaged at or below normal for the past 6 weeks. The average statewide temperature has been below normal for the past 4 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 47 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 55 in the West to 59 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 2 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 3 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. the extreme high temperature was 74 in Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 28 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.02 inches statewide which was 0.01 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.36 inches, Central 1.18 inches, Bluegrass 1.04 inches and East 0.51 inches, which was +0.24, +0.12, +0.04 and -0.45 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.14 inches at London to a high of 1.89 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period March 14 to 20, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Another cool and dry week for most of the Bluegrass state. Western sections of the state did not receive any rainfall while central and eastern sections reported light amounts. Moderate to heavy rainfall was received on the weekend in some central sections with Anderson, Spencer and Franklin counties receiving unofficial reports of near one inch. Temperatures on the weekend rebounded into the upper 50's and low 60's. The first day of the Spring seaon occurred on Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 42 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 55 in the West to 52 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below 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 4 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. This was the third week straight with below normal temperatures and the fifth week in a row with below normal precipitation. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.14 inches statewide which was 0.90 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.18 inches, Bluegrass 0.28 inches and East 0.10 inches, which was 1.12, 0.88, 0.72 and 0.87 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 0.44 inches at Bristol. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period March 7 to 13, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Similar to last week, the second week of March was cold and dry. Monday was the warmest day of the week before a cold front moved through bringing isolated rain. As temperatures dropped, light snow fell across the eastern half of the state. High pressure settled in for the middle of the week. A statewide test tornado warning was issued on Tuesday to prepare for the upcoming severe weather season. Inclement weather returned by late Thursday and lasted through Saturday as a series of clipper systems rushed across the eastern US. Fairer and warmer weather arrived over the weekend, but by late Sunday night another storm system brought a few inches of snow to northern Kentucky. This is the second week in a row of below normal temperatures and the fourth week in a row of below normal precipitation amounts. Temperatures for the period averaged 39 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 51 in the West to 46 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 32 degrees in the West to 30 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 75 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 15 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.65 inches statewide which was 0.38 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.37 inches, Central 0.72 inches, Bluegrass 0.68 inches and East 0.83 inches, which was 0.75, 0.34, 0.31 and 0.13 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.31 inches at Covington and Henderson to a high of 1.27 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period February 28 to March 6, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began with a low pressure system bringing clouds, fog, rain, and snow to the area. A winter weather advisory was issued late Monday and early Tuesday. Gusty west winds and snow accumulation of an inch or two were reported on Tuesday. By mid-week, cold high pressure settled over the state dropping low temperatures into the 10's and 20's. However, daytime highs began to warm up as southerly winds ushered in warmer air from the south. Another low pressure system moved through early Friday. Most of the precipitation was rain, except northern Kentucky reported freezing rain. More rain came through on Saturday. The weekend ended on a great note as Sunday was mostly sunny and highs climbed to near 60 degrees. This is the 3rd consecutive week of below normal precipitation amounts. This is the second week of the year in which temperatures have averaged below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 38 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 51 in the West to 46 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 29 degrees in the West to 27 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. The extreme high temperature was 65 in Paducah and Henderson. The extreme low temperature was 15 in Covington and Spindletop. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.61 inches statewide which was 0.40 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.17 inches, Central 0.62 inches, Bluegrass 0.50 inches and East 1.15 inches, which was -0.93, -0.42, -0.46 and +0.20 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Princeton to a high of 1.38 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period February 21 to 27, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation This was another warm and dry week for Kentucky. A cold front stalled across the state on Monday bringing thunderstorms and heavy showers to parts of the Bluegrass state. It lingered as a stationary front through Thursday. Little additional precipitation was associated with the front, however, it kept clouds, fog, and haze around. Wednesday night, a winter weather advisory was issued for the northern half of the state. Snow accumulation was generally less than 2 inches. High pressure, clear skies, and warmer temperatures moved in for the weekend. Skies began to cloud up Sunday afternoon as the next weather maker approached Kentucky. Temperatures have averaged above normal for 5 straight weeks. Precipitation has averaged below normal for 2 consecutive weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 41 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 50 in the West to 50 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 averaged from 34 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 63 in Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 17 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.34 inches statewide which was 0.54 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.51 inches, Central 0.25 inches, Bluegrass 0.24 inches and East 0.35 inches, which was 0.44, 0.70, 0.52 and 0.51 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.07 inches at Henderson to a high of 0.74 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period February 14 to 20, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began with a weak cold front bringing showers to the eastern half of the state. There were also strong southerly winds that ushered in warm air from the southern US. That allowed temperatures to climb into the 60's and 70's on Tuesday. Another weak cold front moved through Wednesday. There was no precipitation, but winds were from the northwest, so much cooler temperatures moved into Kentucky. Another shot of cold air came on Friday morning as another cold front brought light snow flurries to parts of the state. High pressure settled in later Friday and on Saturday keeping skies clear and winds light. It was short lived as heavier widespread rains fell across the state on Sunday. Temperatures have averaged above normal for 4 weeks in a row, and 7 of the 8 weeks this year. Temperatures for the period averaged 43 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 53 in the West to 51 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 36 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 71 in Glasgow, Paducah, and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 15 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.61 inches statewide which was 0.27 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.30 inches, Central 0.69 inches, Bluegrass 0.46 inches and East 0.98 inches, which was -0.65, -0.26, -0.30 and +0.12 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.24 inches at Paducah to a high of 2.04 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period February 7 to 13, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Above normal temperatures continued into the second week of February. The majority of the week was cloudy, drizzly, and rainy as a series of low pressure systems north along a stationary front that had settled across the state. As the front slowly moved east, cold air moved in bringing snow showers and flurries on Thursday. There was some light accumulation. Pleasant weather settled in on Friday and Saturday due to high pressure with temperatures warming into the 50's. It was short lived as another low pressure system brought rain late Saturday and all of Sunday to the region. Average temperatures have been above normal for 6 of the 7 weeks this year. Precipitation values were above normal for the first time in the last 4 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 42 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 49 in the West to 49 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 34 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 10 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 63 in Jackson. The extreme low temperature was 20 in Somerset. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.11 inches statewide which was 0.23 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.35 inches, Central 1.38 inches, Bluegrass 0.80 inches and East 0.92 inches, which was 0.41, 0.42, 0.04 and 0.05 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.61 inches at Spindletop to a high of 1.88 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 31 to February 6, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began on a calm and dreary note. Skies were cloudy, and fog and haze were persistent across the area, but conditions were dry. By mid-week a low pressure system tracking across the southeastern United States brought rain and snow showers to the state. As much as 3 inches of snow fell across extreme northern Kentucky. The precipitation continued into early Thursday before high pressure moved in bringing light winds and clear skies. The weekend was dry and sunny with temperatures several degrees above normal as highs climbed into the 50's and 60's. This is the third week in a row where precipitation values have been below normal. Temperatures have been above normal for 5 of the past 6 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 39 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 49 in the West to 47 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 6 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 7 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 63 at Berea, Glasgow, and London. The extreme low was 18 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.18 inches statewide which was 0.67 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.18 inches, Central 0.23 inches, Bluegrass 0.17 inches and East 0.16 inches, which was 0.73, 0.70, 0.57 and 0.69 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.04 inches at London to a high of 0.62 inches at Cumberland Gap. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 24 to 30, 2005 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation High pressure was in control of the weather during the first couple days of the week. Skies were clear, and daytime highs were a few degrees above normal due to southwesterly winds. Two cold fronts moved through Tuesday night and into Wednesday. The first one brought light rain showers to central and eastern parts of the state. The second front brought in colder temperatures and clouds, but no precipitation. By Thursday a Canadian high pressure system settled in keeping temperatures below normal. The weekend began with a moderate winter storm. A low pressure system tracking across the Gulf coast states brought rain, snow, sleet, freezing rain, and ice. Cooler and drier weather ended the week. Precipitation amounts have averaged below normal for 2 weeks in a row. Temperatures for the period averaged 33 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 43 in the West to 41 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 28 degrees in the West to 24 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 60 degrees in Paducah and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was -1 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.57 inches statewide which was 0.15 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.27 inches, Central 0.68 inches, Bluegrass 0.59 inches and East 0.74 inches, which was 0.45, 0.09, 0.03 and 0.03 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.22 inches at Paducah to a high of 1.41 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 17 to 23, 2005 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Arctic high pressure was over the region on Monday and Tuesday keeping temperatures below freezing and livestock stress in danger and emergency categories. Temperatures warmed up significantly on Wednesday as winds shifted to the south, ushering in warm air from the southern US. A boundary stalled across the state keeping cold air to the north and warmer air to the south. Several weak storm systems moved along this boundary keeping clouds over the state and bringing light snow. A more intense winter storm pushed through on Saturday. Rain and snow fell, and winds were very gusty. High pressure returned on Sunday with below normal temperatures. This is the first week of 2005 where temperatures have averaged below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 26 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 37 in the West to 32 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 7 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 20 degrees in the West to 17 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 57 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 3 in Covington. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.10 inches statewide which was 0.62 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.03 inches, Bluegrass 0.19 inches and East 0.20 inches, which was 0.72, 0.74, 0.44 and 0.57 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 0.47 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 10 to 16, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The trend for above normal temperatures continued this week. A warm/stationary front settled across the Ohio River Valley bringing warm humid air to the region. Nearly all week was plagued by clouds and rain. At the beginning of the week, daytime highs were nearly 30 degrees above normal. Record highs were set across the state with temperatures climbing into the lower 70's. Flood watches and warnings were routinely issued due to rising waters and continuing precipitation. On Thursday a vigorous cold front swept through with rain, thunderstorms, and winds gusts greater than 40 miles per hour. Temperatures dropped dramatically over the weekend to below normal levels as an arctic high pressure moved over the state. Parts of the state got a dusting of snow on Sunday morning due to a quick moving storm system. This is the third week in a row where temperatures have averaged above normal. Precipitation is above normal for the second consecutive week. Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 13 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 49 in the West to 52 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 14 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 37 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 18 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 74 degrees in Grayson. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.96 inches statewide which was 0.24 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.15 inches, Central 0.86 inches, Bluegrass 0.85 inches and East 0.98 inches, which was 0.42, 0.09, 0.23 and 0.21 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.53 inches at Grayson to a high of 1.42 inches at London. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 3 to 9, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The first full week of January was mild and wet. A frontal boundary stalled across the Ohio River valley keeping temperatures well above average and skies cloudy. By midweek flood watches and warnings were widespread as many creeks, streams, and rivers, including the Ohio, were overflowing their banks. On Friday the front finally moved east. Temperatures dropped to near normal levels as high pressure settled over the area. Over the weekend, the clouds began to breakup allowing the sun to shine through. Temperatures began to warm up again into the 50's and 60's. This is the second week of temperatures well above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 48 degrees across the state which was 16 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 50 in the West to 55 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 17 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 41 degrees in the West to 46 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 16 degrees above normal in the West to 23 degrees above normal in the East. The highest temperature this week was 68 in Somerset. The lowest temperature this week was 28 in Henderson. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.54 inches statewide which was 1.82 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.49 inches, Central 2.27 inches, Bluegrass 3.09 inches and East 2.30 inches, which was 1.77, 1.50, 2.46 and 1.53 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.92 inches at Hardinsburg to a high of 4.70 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period December 27, 2004 to January 2, 2005 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The weather rebounded during the last week of 2004 and the start of 2005. Southerly winds ushered in warmer air from the southern US, which began melting the snow and ice dumped across the region the week before. Several locations across the state set record high low temperatures as lows did not drops out of the middle 50's. A stalled front over the region kept clouds and light rain showers around as the week ended. Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 13 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 53 in the West to 53 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 11 degrees above normal in the West to 13 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 38 degrees in the West to 38 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 11 degrees above normal in the West to 16 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 68 in Somerset, and the extreme low temperature was 45 in Grayson. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.64 inches statewide which was 0.24 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.84 inches, Central 0.87 inches, Bluegrass 0.61 inches and East 0.25 inches, which was 0.08, 0.08, 0.18 and 0.62 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 1.63 inches at Princeton. ---