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 2006. 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 11 to December 17, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall Below normal precipitation fell across the Bluegrass this week, which is the 3rd straight week for this trend. High pressure was dominant over the Ohio River Valley during the early portion of the work week, with temperatures close to normal. By Tuesday, a warm front swept through the region, which turned the winds in a southerly direction and brought in warmer air from the gulf coast. Mid-week saw the passage of a cold front, which brought some scattered showers to the state. High pressure remained dominant over the region from the end of the work week through the weekend with much above normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 52 degrees across the state which was 15 degrees above normal and 21 degrees above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 62 in the West to 63 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 15 degrees above normal in the West to 17 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 40 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 12 degrees above normal in the West to 16 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 70s to a minimum in the low 20s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.43 inches statewide which was 0.52 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.05 inches, Central 0.30 inches, Bluegrass 0.25 inches and East 0.13 inches, which was +0.05, -0.73, -0.60 and -0.79 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Bristol to a high of 1.50 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period December 4 to December 10, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The trend of below normal precipitation continued this previous week. Temperatures were below normal during the early portion of the week as Canadian high pressure was dominant over the Ohio River Valley. By mid-week, a cold front moved across the region and brought snow flurries and a few snow showers to the Commonwealth. After the cold front passage, a massive rush of arctic air pushed into the already cold Ohio Valley. Temperatures began to moderate towards the weekend, however, no other measurable precipitation occurred. Temperatures for the period averaged 31 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees below normal and 18 degrees below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 42 in the West to 41 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from -9 degrees from normal in the West to -7 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 21 degrees in the West to 21 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from -11 degrees from normal in the West to -5 degrees from normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the mid 50s to a minimum in the upper single digits. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 0.95 inches below 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 1.00, 1.02, 0.85 and 0.91 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.02 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period November 27 to December 3, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall The trend of above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall continued this previous week. The work week started off with high pressure over the Ohio River Valley. A southerly flow of air brought in mild and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. By Thursday, a strong low pressure system began to make its way from Texas and brought some rain showers Thursday into Friday morning. On Friday, the cold front passed through the State and temperatures dropped some 20 degrees in a matter of a few hours in some locations. Some severe weather was reported early Friday in the form of wind damage. The weekend saw Canadian high pressure build in, which ushered in extremely cold temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 49 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees above normal and 4 degrees above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 55 in the West to 61 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 10 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees above normal in the West to 13 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 70s to a minimum in the low 20s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.88 inches statewide which was 0.05 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.71 inches, Central 0.97 inches, Bluegrass 0.52 inches and East 0.33 inches, which was +0.71, -0.02, -0.32 and -0.57 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.19 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.38 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period November 20 to November 26, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall The trend of above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall continued for the second straight week. High pressure was dominant over the Ohio River Valley the previous week. Cool temperatures were felt during the first part of the work week, as the high pressure system was to the west of the Commonwealth, resulting in a cool air flow from Canada. By mid-week, temperatures began to rise as the high moved to the east and a southerly flow from the Gulf ensued. Conditions remained the same through the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal and 1 degree above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 60 in the West to 58 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 31 degrees in the West to 31 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 70s to a minimum in the low 20s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.02 inches statewide which was 0.90 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.02 inches, Bluegrass 0.02 inches and East 0.03 inches, which was 1.00, 0.94, 0.81 and 0.86 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bristol to a high of 0.08 inches at Huntington. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period November 13 to November 19, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: Temperatures for the period averaged 44 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 50 in the West to 51 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 36 degrees in the West to 38 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.34 inches statewide which was 0.42 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.67 inches, Central 1.77 inches, Bluegrass 1.00 inches and East 0.91 inches, which was 0.68, 0.80, 0.17 and 0.03 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.50 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.29 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., November 13, 2006 MJH 34-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Farmers actively harvested their corn and soybeans when wet soil conditions and high grain moisture levels permitted. Farmers also continued to actively sow their winter wheat as wet soil conditions permitted. Stripping of tobacco advanced slowly as high humidity has slowed hanging tobacco from going into case. Scattered showers were received during last week. Temperatures were above normal and averaged from the mid 40 degrees to the mid 60 degrees with some temperatures in the 70’s reported. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.2 days out of seven. As of Friday, November 10, topsoil moisture was 1 percent short, 48 percent adequate and 51 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 3 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 33 percent surplus. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Harvesting of corn and soybeans continued as field conditions permitted. Combining of corn is nearing completion with 99 percent of the crop harvested as of November 12. This was 1 percent behind last year at this time and equal to the five year average. Even with wet soil conditions farmers were able to harvest 6 percent of their acreage last week. Farmers report harvesting a very good yielding corn crop. Soybean harvest advanced as weather conditions permitted. As of Sunday, 72 percent of the State’s soybean acreage had been harvested. This was behind last year’s 95 percent harvested and 85 percent for average. The fall of 2005 was an unusual year in that it was dry and had nearly ideal harvesting weather. Last week farmers were able to harvest 7 percent of their soybean acreage. Farmers are harvesting a record high yielding soybean crop. TOBACCO: Burley stripping advanced to 42 percent complete, an increase of 7 percent from a week earlier. This was ahead of 40 percent for 2005 while behind 47 for average. Stripping this fall has been slowed by too much humidity in the air while in 2005 stripping was slowed by low humidity levels that delayed tobacco going into case. Condition of the stripped crop was 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 52 percent good and 13 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Winter wheat seeding was 75 percent complete, behind both last year with 94 percent planted and the five year average with 84 percent. Wet field conditions have slowed both seeding and germination this fall. Condition of the emerged wheat plants was good considering the wet fall with 34 percent in fair condition, 44 percent in good condition and 22 percent in excellent condition. Pastures continue to be used for grazing by farmers. As of Sunday, November 15, pastures in Kentucky were 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 52 percent good and 19 percent excellent. With the large quantities of hay harvested in 2006, farmers should have adequate feed for their livestock this winter. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period November 6 to November 12, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall After four straight weeks of below normal temperatures, above normal temperatures were felt across the Bluegrass this past week. The work week started off mild as high pressure over the Atlantic coast brought on a southerly flow of air. By Tuesday, a low pressure system began to make its way from Texas, which triggered scattered showers through Wednesday evening. The end of the work week saw high pressure build in from Canada, bringing cool temperatures to the State. The weekend saw more showers as another cold front passed through the Commonwealth. Temperatures for the period averaged 54 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal and 7 degrees above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 60 in the West to 62 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 46 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 10 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the upper 70s to a minimum in the low 30s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.95 inches statewide which was 0.03 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.50 inches, Central 1.06 inches, Bluegrass 0.30 inches and East 0.93 inches, which was +0.50, +0.10, -0.52 and +0.05 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.17 inches at Spindletop to a high of 2.46 inches at Henderson. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., November 6, 2006 SKB 33-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: A break in the rain resulted in below normal rainfall across the Commonwealth for the first time in two weeks. Precipitation totaled 0.50 inches statewide, 0.35 inches below normal. Temperatures averaged 47 degrees, which was 5 degrees below normal. Some progress was made this week harvesting soybeans and corn and sowing winter wheat, but all field activities were behind the 5-year average. Topsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 54 percent adequate, and 44 percent surplus, as of Friday, November 3. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 4 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 35 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.3 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, November 5, 35 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, slightly ahead of last year, but behind the fiveyear average. This was an increase of 11 percent from last week. Stripped tobacco was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Farmers still reported cases of houseburn and some spotting on leaves due to cool temperatures. CORN: Harvested corn acreage was at 93 percent, behind 99 percent for the previous year and 97 percent for the average. Farmers were still having trouble getting into the fields to finish combining. SOYBEANS: Harvested soybean acreage was at 65 percent, behind 86 percent for the previous year and 74 percent for the average. Harvesting was about two weeks behind last year and a week behind the average. Farmers report that most of the double cropped soybeans were still in the fields. OTHER CROPS: Farmers have seeded 72 percent of the winter wheat crop as of Sunday, November 5. This was behind last year’s 89 percent and the average of 74 percent. Farmers reported good germination where the crop has been planted. Winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. The winter wheat crop condition declined from 74 percent rated good to excellent last week to 71 percent rated good to excellent this week. On Friday, November 3, pastures were rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 30 to November 5, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall After two consecutive weeks of above normal rainfall, the Commonwealth saw a break in the wet weather this past week with below normal rainfall. The work week started off mild, as high pressure and southerly winds brought normal temperatures to the State. By Tuesday, a cold front moved into the Ohio River Valley, triggering scattered showers and a few thunderstorms through Wednesday. By the end of the work week, Canadian high pressure built into the State, which brought dry conditions and cold temperatures, lasting through the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 47 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal and 1 degree above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 56 in the West to 58 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 38 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 70s to a minimum in the low 20s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.50 inches statewide which was 0.35 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.33 inches, Central 0.41 inches, Bluegrass 0.68 inches and East 0.57 inches, which was 0.58, 0.47, 0.09 and 0.26 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.09 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 1.40 inches at London. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 30, 2006 SKB 32-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Heavy rains and cold temperatures continued this week. Temperatures across the State averaged 46 degrees, 8 degrees below normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 1.91 inches statewide, which was 1.25 inches above normal. Harvest activities and winter wheat planting were slowed again this week due to wet weather. Topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 46 percent adequate, and 53 percent surplus, as of Friday, October 27. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 32 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.2 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, October 29, 24 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, slightly ahead of last year, but behind the average. Stripped tobacco was rated 3 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Farmers report above average tobacco quality, but are still concerned about the wet weather received during the growing season affecting weight and high humidity during stripping. CORN: Harvested acreage was at 90 percent, behind 98 percent for the previous year and 95 percent for the average. Wet fields continued to limit combining. SOYBEANS: Harvested acreage was at 60 percent, behind 79 percent the previous year and 65 percent for the average. Harvesting is only about a half a week behind average compared to a week behind a week earlier. Farmers report above average yields for the soybean crop. OTHER CROPS: Farmers have seeded 70 percent of the winter wheat as of Sunday, October 29. This is behind last year’s 79 percent, but ahead of the average of 63 percent. Farmers report good germination where the crop has been planted, but are concerned with ponding in some fields. The crop was rated 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 67 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. On Friday, October 27, pastures were rated 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Pastures are in good shape right now for winter grazing. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 23 to October 29, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall ...Unseasonably Cold High Temperatures Early in the Work Week... Heavy rains and cold temperatures were the trend for last weeks weather, which continued a two week trend of such weather. The work week started off cold and dry as Canadian high pressure dominated over the Ohio River Valley. By Thursday, a strong low pressure system began to move northeast from the Texas/Oklahoma Panhandle, which triggered scattered showers and thunderstorms for the Commonwealth. Friday brought widespread rain and localized flooding to areas of the state. The weekend saw rain very early Saturday morning, which was then followed by clearing as high pressure built in. Sunday saw a return of normal temperatures to the state with clear skies. Temperatures for the period averaged 46 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees below normal and 8 degrees below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 56 in the West to 53 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 12 degrees below normal in the West to 11 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 38 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 70s to a minimum in the upper 20s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.91 inches statewide which was 1.25 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.38 inches, Central 1.71 inches, Bluegrass 1.83 inches and East 1.73 inches, which was 1.69, 1.05, 1.20 and 1.06 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.86 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.98 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 23, 2006 SKB 31-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall were the norm this week across the Commonwealth. Statewide, a total of 2.25 inches of rain were received, which was 1.59 inches above normal. Harvest of row crops and planting of winter wheat slowed down this week due to wet fields. Topsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 34 percent surplus, as of Friday, October 20. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 5 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 21 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.8 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, October 22, 16 percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, slightly behind both last year and the average. Stripped tobacco was rated 3 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Farmers continue to report problems with tobacco curing due to wet weather. Some houseburn was also reported. CORN: Harvested acreage was at 84 percent, behind 92 percent for the previous year and 90 percent for the average. Wet fields limited combining. SOYBEANS: Harvested acreage was at 39 percent, behind 64 percent the previous year and 51 percent for the average. Farmers are concerned about getting the double cropped soybeans harvested due to the wet weather. Currently, harvesting is about a week behind average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers are almost half done seeding winter wheat. As of Sunday, October 22, 48 percent of the winter wheat had been planted, behind the previous year’s 67 percent, but slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 47 percent. The crop was rated 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. On Friday, October 20, pastures were rated 4 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Ninety percent of producers reported having an adequate hay supply for this winter’s feeding. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 16 to October 22, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall The trend of below normal temperatures continued this past week for the Commonwealth as two bouts of Canadian high pressure ushered in cold air. The work week started off with high pressure and cool temperatures over the Ohio River Valley. By Tuesday, low pressure made its way into the region and brought heavy rainfall to the entire state along with milder temperatures. Thursday into Friday saw the passage of a cold front, bringing scattered showers and cooler temperatures. High pressure built in from the west late on Friday and held firm through the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 54 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and the same as the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 61 in the West to 62 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 47 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 80s to a minimum in the low 30s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.25 inches statewide which was 1.59 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.40 inches, Central 2.54 inches, Bluegrass 2.33 inches and East 1.73 inches, which was 1.72, 1.88, 1.70 and 1.06 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.45 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 3.19 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 16, 2006 SAL 30-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Farmers were busy harvesting their crops and sowing winter wheat as weather permitted. High pressure was dominant early in the week as mild temperatures made it feel like late summer. A cold front moved in by mid-week which brought scattered showers across the Commonwealth. The remainder of the week had little precipitation and temperatures were below normal. Topsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 19 percent surplus, as of Friday, October 13. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 80 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.8 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, October 15, one percent of the housed tobacco was rated very poor, with 4 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Eight percent of the burley tobacco crop was reported stripped, behind 12 percent for the previous year and 13 percent for the average. Farmers report a slow harvest due to combination of weather delays and labor shortage. CORN & SOYBEANS: Corn harvested acreage was at 82 percent complete, behind 87 percent for the previous year and 86 percent for the average. Soybean condition in the field was 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. Ninety-four percent of the State’s acreage has dropped leaves, behind 97 percent a year ago and 96 percent on average. Seventy-eight percent of soybeans were matured, behind 79 percent for the previous year and 92 percent for the average. Harvested acreage was 32 percent complete, behind 47 percent the previous year and 38 percent for the average. Some farmers report concern that their soybeans were not safe from frost. OTHER CROPS: Winter wheat seeding was getting back on track this week. As of Sunday, October 15, 35 percent of winter wheat had been planted, behind the previous year’s 46 percent while ahead of the 5-year average of 29 percent. On Friday, October 13, pastures were rated 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 9 to October 15, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall Winter-like temperatures were the main weather highlight this week. High pressure was dominant early in the week as mild temperatures made it feel like late summer. By Wednesday, a cold front began to make its way into the Ohio River Valley and brought scattered showers to the Commonwealth. After the passage of a very stong cold front, which brought showers to the state on Thursday, Canadian high pressure took hold over much of the Upper Midwest and Ohio River Valley. High temperatures on Friday struggled to reach the mid 40s with frost/freeze across the state. The weekend saw dry conditions and below normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 54 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees below normal and 9 degrees below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 64 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 6 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees from below in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 80s to a minimum in the upper 20s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.38 inches statewide which was 0.28 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.10 inches, Central 0.21 inches, Bluegrass 0.54 inches and East 0.68 inches, which was -0.59, -0.45, -0.09 and 0.00 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Evansville to a high of 1.60 inches at Buckhorn Lake. ================================================================================ | | | |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 0.42 26.96 7.60 +1.58 +4.97 78 30 53.9 -5 92 46 Berea 0.54 26.49 6.55 -0.29 +3.46 79 30 55.9 -2 87 48 Bowling Green 0.13 27.02 5.34 +0.16 +2.27 81 30 54.5 -5 -- -- Bristol 0.33 24.78 2.62 +2.04 -0.05 79 27 53.6 -4 -- -- Buckhorn Lake 1.60 24.65 6.19 -0.87 +3.24 79 31 53.6 -5 -- -- Cape Girardeau 0.26 26.76 4.47 +1.62 +1.47 78 25 52.6 -9 -- -- Campbellsville 0.46 25.05 5.92 -5.14 +2.39 78 29 53.4 -6 93 51 Covington 0.13 24.00 4.33 +0.28 +1.70 79 28 52.2 -6 -- -- Cumberland Gap 0.30 22.64 3.53 -4.79 +0.60 79 31 53.6 -5 94 50 Dix Dam 0.61 26.10 5.83 -0.18 +2.97 78 30 53.9 -4 -- -- Evansville 0.01 33.72 3.84 +9.95 +1.16 78 31 53.4 -8 -- -- Glasgow 0.23 29.82 6.15 +0.92 +3.01 82 29 55.5 -4 98 57 Grayson 0.46 30.00 4.74 +5.46 +2.10 78 31 52.8 -5 94 50 Hardinsburg 0.21 32.65 5.89 +6.00 +2.83 81 32 54.1 -5 95 57 Henderson 0.19 29.42 5.47 +4.75 +2.63 79 29 53.1 -8 93 50 Huntington 0.83 32.70 6.76 +8.04 +4.11 78 32 53.4 -5 -- -- Jackson 0.93 26.52 6.19 -0.07 +3.26 77 29 52.6 -5 -- -- Lexington 0.93 30.94 9.54 +5.56 +6.91 78 31 52.1 -6 -- -- London 0.23 27.32 5.88 +2.63 +3.04 80 29 52.8 -5 -- -- Louisville 0.12 36.70 7.37 +11.87 +4.69 80 32 53.4 -6 -- -- Mayfield 0.05 36.87 15.27 +9.40 +11.80 79 31 53.6 -8 94 50 Nashville 0.26 23.68 3.71 -1.25 +0.96 83 32 57.6 -2 -- -- Nolin Lake 0.17 30.16 7.06 +1.68 +3.70 81 31 54.7 -5 -- -- Paducah 0.02 37.13 10.79 +10.46 +7.74 80 31 54.4 -7 89 48 Princeton 0.07 29.07 8.01 +2.35 +5.09 80 31 57.1 -4 95 49 Quicksand 0.93 24.09 6.27 -2.50 +3.34 79 31 53.6 -5 94 50 Somerset 0.13 27.58 6.35 -0.47 +3.03 78 26 50.8 -7 93 50 Spindletop 0.54 26.56 7.52 +1.18 +4.89 77 31 52.4 -6 96 53 Williamstown 0.46 31.65 7.80 +6.42 +4.97 79 29 52.1 -6 93 50 ================================================================================ 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 10, 2006 SAL 29-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The trend of below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall ended this week with above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall occurring over the Commonwealth. Some farmers report that their fields were still wet from the previous week’s rains; however the favorable weather this week has allowed them to begin their winter wheat planting. Topsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 26 percent surplus, as of Friday, October 6. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent short, 79 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.7 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, October 8, three percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, 18 percent was ready to be stripped, and 79 percent was still curing or uncut. One percent of the housed tobacco was rated very poor, with 5 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Some farmers report problems with tobacco curing, due to wet weather and houseburn. CORN: Ninety-seven percent of the corn had matured, behind 99 percent for last year and the 5-year average. Harvested acreage was at 67 percent, behind 78 percent for the previous year and 79 percent for the average. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition was 3 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 32 percent excellent. Eighty-five percent has dropped leaves, behind 92 percent a year ago and 90 percent on average. Sixty-six percent of soybeans had matured, behind 69 percent for the previous year and 82 percent for the average. Harvested acreage was at 20 percent, behind 29 percent the previous year and 25 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Winter wheat seeding continued slowly, due to the wet fields from the previous week’s rain. As of Sunday, October 8, 12 percent of winter wheat had been planted, behind the previous year’s 23 percent and the 5-year average of 17 percent. On Friday, October 6, pastures were rated 4 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period October 2 to October 8, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall The trend of below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall ended this previous week with above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall occuring over the Commonwealth. The work week started off mild and dry as high pressure dominated over the Ohio River Valley. By Thursday, a cold front moved through the Commonwealth and brought scattered showers and thunderstorms. Behind the front, cool air from Canada brought below normal temperatures for Thursday and Friday. By the weekend high pressure was once again in control. Mild temperatures and dry conditions were felt during the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 63 degrees across the state which was 2 above from normal and 2 degrees above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 74 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 51 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from near normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 90s to a minimum in the mid 30s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.21 inches statewide which was 0.45 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.21 inches, Bluegrass 0.16 inches and East 0.44 inches, which was 0.67, 0.44, 0.46 and 0.23 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 1.45 inches at Huntington. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 2, 2006 SAL 28-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall continued for a second straight week for the Commonwealth. Farmers reported that excessive moisture hampered fieldwork, and damaged crops in some areas. Topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 49 percent adequate, and 50 percent surplus, as of Friday, September 29. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 5 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 31 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.0 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Farmers reported a slow down in harvesting due to excessive rain, and some farmers reported a shortage of labor as a contributing factor. By Sunday, October 1, 90 percent of the burley tobacco crop had been cut, behind the previous year’s 93 percent and the average of 94 percent. As of Sunday, October 1, two percent of burley tobacco was stripped, 14 percent was ready to be stripped, and 84 percent was still curing or uncut. One percent of the housed tobacco was rated very poor, with 6 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Ninety percent of the dark tobacco was cut, behind 94 percent for the previous year and 95 percent for the average. CORN: Ninety-six percent of the corn had matured, behind 97 percent for last year and equal to the 5-year average. Harvested acreage was at 52 percent, behind 63 percent for the previous year and 65 percent for the average. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition was 2 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. Seventy-three percent has dropped leaves, behind 75 percent a year ago and 78 percent on average. Fortytwo percent of soybeans had matured, behind 57 percent for the previous year and 67 percent for the average. Harvested acreage was at 5 percent, behind 18 percent the previous year and 15 percent for the average. Seventy-eight percent of the soybean crop was reported safe from frost. Excessive rainfall continued to be a problem for the corn and soybean fieldwork. OTHER CROPS: As of Sunday, October 1, only five percent of winter wheat had been planted due to wet field conditions, behind the previous year’s 12 percent and the 5-year average of 8 percent. On Friday, September 29, pastures were rated 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period September 25 to October 1, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall The trend of below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall continued for the second straight week for the Commonwealth. The workweek started out with mild temperatures as high pressure dominated over the Ohio River Valley. By Wednesday high pressure began to break down and a cold front swept through the region, bringing showers to the state. Behind the mid-week cold front, high pressure built in for Friday and brought cool temperatures from Canada. The weekend saw the high slide to the east and another cold front bring showers into Central and Eastern Kentucky. Temperatures for the period averaged 61 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal and 2 degrees below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 74 in the West to 70 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 49 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 80s to a minimum in the upper 30s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.90 inches statewide which was 0.11 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.36 inches, Central 0.97 inches, Bluegrass 1.30 inches and East 0.95 inches, which was -0.44, +0.15, +0.55 and +0.18 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.08 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 2.04 inches at Williamstown. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 25, 2006 NLB 27-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal rainfall continued to fall across the Commonwealth this week. Heavy late week rain caused flash flooding of streams and low lying areas. Standing crops in flooded areas sustained varying degrees of damage. Topsoil moisture was rated 6 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 33 percent surplus, as of Friday, September 22. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 14 percent short, 59 percent adequate, and 25 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.7 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Farmers reported increased houseburn to some of the tobacco crop. By Sunday, September 24, eighty percent of the burley tobacco crop had been cut, behind the previous year’s 86 percent and the average of 88 percent. Two percent of the housed tobacco was rated very poor, with 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Sixty-six percent of the dark tobacco was cut, behind 78 percent for the previous year and 87 percent for the average. CORN: Eighty-seven percent of the corn had matured, behind 94 percent for last year and 93 percent on average. Harvested acreage was at 39 percent, behind 46 percent for the previous year and 51 percent for the average. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition was 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. Forty-five percent has dropped leaves, behind 55 percent a year ago and 57 percent on average. Nineteen percent of soybeans had matured, behind 32 percent for the previous year and 45 percent for the average. Harvested acreage was at 4 percent, behind 5 percent previous year and 6 percent for the average. Excessive rainfall caused flood damage to corn and soybean crops in low lying areas. OTHER CROPS: Fall seeded small grain planting gained momentum. On Friday, September 22, pastures were rated 4 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period September 18 to September 24, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: The trend of above normal rainfall continued this week as a series of cold fronts moved through the Commonwealth. The first cold front moved through the state on Monday bringing scattered showers. High pressure build into the Ohio River Valley on Tuesday, which ushered in cooler and drier air from Canada. By Friday, high pressure moved east as a strong low pressure system moved into the region. Heavy rainfall was experienced Friday with the passage of a warm front, followed by more heavy rain over the weekend as the second cold front passed through the state. Temperatures for the period averaged 63 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal and 5 degrees below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 71 in the West to 72 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 54 degrees in the West to 54 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the mid 80s to a minimum in the upper 30s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 3.95 inches statewide which was 3.15 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 4.20 inches, Central 3.89 inches, Bluegrass 4.30 inches and East 3.41 inches, which was 3.39, 3.04, 3.52 and 2.63 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.86 inches at Bardstown to a high of 10.41 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 18, 2006 NLB 26-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal rainfall fell across the Commonwealth this week. Showers slowly moved across the State for most of the week, with pleasant weather over the weekend. Topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 8 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 15 percent surplus, as of Friday, September 15. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 17 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Farmers continued to cut and house tobacco, cut and bale hay, and harvest mature corn. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.5 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Farmers are still experiencing difficulty finding enough workers to harvest the tobacco crop. By Sunday, September 17, seventy-six percent of the burley tobacco crop had been cut, behind the previous year’s 79 percent and the five year average of 80 percent. Only 1 percent of the tobacco in the field was rated very poor, with 3 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 31 percent excellent. Sixty-six percent of the dark tobacco was cut, behind 68 percent for the previous year and 76 percent for the average. CORN: Excellent corn yields are expected. Field corn condition as of Friday, September 15, was rated 3 percent poor, 12 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 50 percent excellent. Ninetyeight percent of corn crop was in the dent stage or beyond equal to 2005 and the five year average. Eighty-four percent of the corn had matured, behind 88 percent for last year and 86 percent average. Harvested acreage was at 29 percent, equal to last year, but behind the average at 35 percent. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition was 3 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 43 percent excellent. Thirty percent of the average has dropped leaves, behind the 33 percent a year ago and 34 percent on average. OTHER CROPS: Pasture and hay conditions held steady this week. One percent of the hay fields were rated very poor, 6 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. On Friday, September 15, pastures were rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period September 11 to September 17, 2006 Near Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall After a week of below normal rainfall, above normal rainfall fell across the Commonwealth this previous week. A stationary front was in place Monday, which sparked showers and thunderstorms over Western Kentucky. By Tuesday, the stationary front began to slowly move east as a cold front and brought heavy showers to the state. The front moved out by Thursday and high pressure asserted itself over the Ohio River Valley and brought pleasant weather over the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 68 degrees across the state which was near normal and 1 degree below last weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 79 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 59 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 2 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the upper 80s to a minimum in the low 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.19 inches statewide which was 0.39 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.19 inches, Central 1.27 inches, Bluegrass 1.50 inches and East 0.81 inches, which was 0.37, 0.42, 0.73 and 0.03 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.15 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 3.17 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 11, 2006 NLB 25-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week started off with below normal temperatures, and no precipitation. Isolated showers and thunderstorms occurred across the State by the end of the week. Topsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 23 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus, as of Friday, September 8. Subsoil moisture was rated 5 percent very short, 29 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Farmers continued to cut and house tobacco, cut and bale hay, and harvest early maturing corn. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.7 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Some farmers are still experiencing difficulty finding enough workers to put up the tobacco crop. Housed tobacco continued to cure well with adequate humidity to bring it in and out of case. By Sunday, September 10, sixty-five percent of the burley tobacco crop had been cut, behind the previous year’s 70 percent and the five year average of 69 percent. Only 1 percent of the tobacco in the field was rated very poor, with 3 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Fifty percent of the dark tobacco was cut, equal to last year, but lagging the 62 percent for the average. CORN: Early maturing fields were harvested this week. Grain harvest should become more prevalent in the next week or so. Field corn condition as of Friday, September 8, was rated 3 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 45 percent excellent. Ninety-six percent of corn crop was in the dent stage or beyond compared with 94 percent for both 2005 and five year average. Seventy-five percent of the corn had matured, compared with 73 percent for both last year and the five year average. Harvested acreage was at 18 percent, behind the average at 23 percent. It was 14 percent a year ago. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition was 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Farmers are expecting excellent yields. Thirty-five percent had leaves turning yellow compared with 45 percent last year and 37 percent for average. Eleven percent has dropped leaves, behind the 16 percent for a year ago and 17 percent on average. OTHER CROPS: The week was dry enough to allow hay to be cut and baled. Pasture and hay conditions held steady this week. Two percent of the hay fields were rated very poor, 8 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. On Friday, September 8, pastures were rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period September 4 to September 10, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall Eight consecutive weeks of near or above normal temperatures came to an end this past week as below normal temperatures occurred. The work week started off cool and dry as high pressure was dominant over the Ohio River Valley. Some rainfall occurred over far Eastern Kentucky during the work week. High pressure remained in control of the weather until Saturday, when isolated showers and thunderstorms effected the Commonwealth. More scattered showers and thunderstorms fell across the state on Sunday as well. Temperatures for the period averaged 69 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal and 3 degrees below last weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 82 in the West to 79 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 56 degrees in the West to 58 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the upper 80s to a minimum in the low 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.27 inches statewide which was 0.53 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.20 inches, Central 0.40 inches, Bluegrass 0.19 inches and East 0.30 inches, which was 0.62, 0.45, 0.58 and 0.48 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 1.90 inches at Bristol. Kentucky & Regional Weather Data for Week ending Sep 10, 2006 - Summer Format ================================================================================ | | | | Growing | Rainfall | Dev. From | Air Temperature | Degree Days |=================|==============|=================|=============== | Since Last| Norm Norm | Dev.| Since Dev. Weather |Last April Four| Since Last | Wkly. From|Last Apr Since Station |Week 1 Wks.| Apr 1 4 Wks.|Hi Lo Avg. Norm|Week 1 Apr 1 ================================================================================ (Inches) (Degrees F) Bardstown 0.00 17.62 2.09 -4.39 -1.26 84 54 67.9 -2 124 3144 +82 Berea 0.04 18.96 3.85 -3.80 +0.20 81 52 68.0 -1 124 3221 +56 Bowling Gree 0.90 20.97 5.81 -1.95 +2.53 84 55 70.6 +1 142 3447 +252 Bristol 1.90 21.56 5.07 +2.24 +2.14 85 56 69.7 +1 136 3069 +129 Buckhorn Lak 0.10 17.22 1.70 -4.50 -1.64 84 55 68.6 -0 129 3219 +442 Cape Girarde 0.04 22.01 3.18 +0.70 -0.04 87 52 68.4 -3 128 3459 +110 Campbellsvil 0.22 17.98 2.72 -7.60 -1.48 84 54 69.1 -1 132 3163 +28 Covington 0.05 17.56 1.46 -2.86 -1.45 85 54 68.1 -1 124 3056 +155 Cumberland G 0.09 18.96 3.61 -4.82 +0.07 84 55 68.9 -0 131 3189 +279 Dix Dam 0.02 19.20 3.67 -3.43 +0.27 83 54 68.0 -1 124 3086 -17 Evansville 0.00 26.71 3.06 +6.31 +0.26 86 53 68.9 -3 131 3387 +191 Glasgow 0.52 22.55 3.70 -2.30 +0.06 86 54 70.9 +1 145 3413 +308 Grayson 0.13 24.68 5.31 +3.42 +2.22 83 55 68.0 -1 124 3120 +373 Hardinsburg 0.18 25.47 4.84 +2.73 +1.43 85 54 69.7 -0 136 3241 +36 Henderson 0.88 22.58 3.36 +1.57 +0.37 85 54 68.8 -3 130 3219 -7 Huntington 0.61 24.53 6.45 +3.17 +3.23 83 54 68.0 -1 125 3207 +276 Jackson 0.31 19.62 4.18 -3.21 +0.68 81 56 68.3 -1 125 3235 +458 Lexington 0.00 19.55 2.29 -2.46 -1.06 85 54 68.4 -1 127 3112 +171 London 0.83 20.69 4.31 -0.34 +1.23 83 54 68.9 -0 130 3147 +247 Louisville 0.50 27.54 2.81 +6.13 -0.30 86 55 68.9 -1 130 3174 -53 Mayfield 0.09 20.13 1.95 -2.94 -1.60 84 55 68.9 -3 130 3192 -74 Nashville 0.09 19.52 1.36 -1.87 -1.79 89 64 76.2 +6 177 3739 +309 Nolin Lake 0.29 22.13 2.42 -2.01 -1.16 84 55 70.4 +1 141 3263 +292 Paducah 0.03 25.54 2.44 +2.78 -0.73 87 53 69.1 -3 131 3538 +220 Princeton 0.15 19.62 1.59 -3.40 -1.85 88 53 69.5 -2 133 3471 +174 Quicksand 0.31 17.11 3.53 -5.72 +0.03 84 55 68.6 -0 128 3184 +407 Somerset 0.02 20.28 2.43 -3.52 -1.18 83 53 67.7 -1 122 3097 +96 Spindletop 1.03 17.73 2.49 -4.28 -0.86 84 53 67.5 -2 120 3022 +81 Williamstown 0.03 22.15 2.48 +0.50 -0.75 85 54 68.3 -1 126 3036 +95 ================================================================================ 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., September 5, 2006 KBM 24-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky weather last week was a welcome departure from the summer’s heat. Temperatures were comfortable and much needed rain was received statewide. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, September 1, was rated 1 percent very short, 10 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 16 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 25 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork were limited to 3.9 days out of a possible 7 days. Farmers were busy preparing for harvest and other general farm work. TOBACCO: As rains permitted, tobacco producers were busy with various jobs related to tobacco; topping, spraying, cutting and housing. As of Sunday, September 3, over half of the burley had been cut at 54 percent, ahead of the average of 53 percent and the 48 percent cut a year ago. Thirtyseven percent of the dark tobacco has been cut, the same as last year, but well behind the 45 percent for the five year average. Tobacco condition in the field remains fairly stable with 3 percent rated poor, 15 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Concerns remain about having adequate labor for harvest and housing. Some houseburn has been reported, but is considered minor at this time. CORN: Corn harvest is picking up at 11 percent, just behind the average of 12 percent, but ahead of last year’s 8 percent. Sixty percent was mature, just one percent behind average, but 4 percent ahead of last year’s 56 percent. Ninety-two percent of the corn acreage was in the dent stage, compared to 88 percent last year and 90 percent for average. Corn condition was mostly good to excellent with 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 42 percent excellent. Reporters also noted that some corn for silage was also ready for harvest. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, September 3, 86 percent of the soybeans were setting pods, the same as last year, but slightly behind the average of 91 percent. Thirteen percent of soybeans had leaves turning yellow, behind both 25 percent a year ago and the five year average of 21 percent. Five percent of soybeans were shedding leaves, behind the 10 percent a year ago and the average of 8 percent. Overall, the soybean condition changed little with 2 percent rated as poor, 18 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest was hampered last week, but the wet weather was beneficial for pastures. Hay condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 39 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. As of Friday, September 1, the pasture condition improved, with 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period August 28 to September 03, 2006 Near Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: The workweek start off warm and wet as a low pressure system slowly advanced toward the Ohio Valley and high pressure anchored over southeast U.S. pumped warm, moisture air into the Bluegrass state. By Wednesday, cooler air started to filter into the west and central sections of the state as the low pressure system moved east of the state. By Thursday, the remenants of Tropical Storm Ernesto moved along the southeast U.S. coast and influenced northern and eastern Kentucky's weather with scattered showers and thunderstorms...which continued into the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 72 degrees across the state which was near normal. High temperatures averaged from 79 in the West to 77 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 65 degrees in the West to 66 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 temperatures ranged from a maximum in the low 90s to a minimum in the mid 50s. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.40 inches statewide which was 0.58 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.73 inches, Central 1.27 inches, Bluegrass 1.28 inches and East 2.34 inches, which was -0.07, +0.42, +0.46 and +1.50 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.21 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 5.17 inches at Huntington. Kentucky & Regional Weather Data for Week ending Sep 3, 2006 - Summer Format ================================================================================ | | | | Growing | Rainfall | Dev. From | Air Temperature | Degree Days |=================|==============|=================|=============== | Since Last| Norm Norm | Dev.| Since Dev. Weather |Last April Four| Since Last | Wkly. From|Last Apr Since Station |Week 1 Wks.| Apr 1 4 Wks.|Hi Lo Avg. Norm|Week 1 Apr 1 ================================================================================ (Inches) (Degrees F) Bardstown 1.27 17.62 3.28 -3.64 -0.21 85 57 70.9 -1 145 3020 +84 Berea 2.36 18.92 5.30 -2.91 +1.68 85 54 71.6 +1 149 3097 +65 Bowling Gree 1.95 20.07 5.96 -1.98 +2.76 90 61 73.9 +2 164 3305 +243 Bristol 2.67 19.66 3.87 +1.10 +0.99 89 61 73.8 +3 163 2933 +119 Buckhorn Lak 0.80 17.12 2.09 -3.75 -1.22 86 58 71.9 +1 151 3090 +432 Cape Girarde 0.21 21.97 4.20 +1.49 +1.03 87 54 72.6 -1 156 3331 +115 Campbellsvil 1.33 17.76 3.90 -6.73 -0.25 88 59 73.4 +2 161 3031 +29 Covington 0.97 17.51 1.61 -2.24 -1.38 84 56 70.8 +0 143 2932 +150 Cumberland G 2.19 18.87 4.02 -4.19 +0.22 86 58 71.9 +1 151 3058 +274 Dix Dam 1.95 19.18 5.64 -2.65 +2.15 84 56 70.9 +0 144 2962 -8 Evansville 0.38 26.71 7.30 +7.00 +4.49 88 57 72.1 -1 152 3256 +193 Glasgow 1.33 22.03 3.99 -1.91 +0.35 93 59 73.9 +2 158 3268 +296 Grayson 3.83 24.55 6.84 +3.93 +3.54 86 58 71.0 +0 145 2996 +368 Hardinsburg 1.89 25.29 6.78 +3.40 +3.37 87 58 71.9 +0 151 3105 +40 Henderson 0.43 21.70 3.88 +1.49 +0.98 87 56 71.9 -2 152 3089 -4 Huntington 5.17 23.92 6.09 +3.21 +2.63 87 58 71.4 +1 149 3082 +270 Jackson 1.98 19.31 4.18 -2.70 +0.59 86 56 69.6 -1 136 3110 +452 Lexington 0.73 19.55 3.49 -1.71 +0.00 84 58 70.5 -0 141 2985 +170 London 2.36 19.86 6.09 -0.36 +3.07 86 60 71.9 +1 152 3017 +236 Louisville 0.60 27.04 3.79 +6.36 +0.62 86 57 70.8 -1 144 3044 -50 Mayfield 1.12 20.04 3.15 -2.11 -0.34 86 58 71.9 -2 151 3062 -64 Nashville 0.47 19.43 3.52 -1.16 +0.39 94 65 77.5 +6 185 3562 +279 Nolin Lake 0.59 21.84 3.60 -1.31 +0.15 90 59 73.2 +2 159 3122 +277 Paducah 1.70 25.51 4.25 +3.61 +1.19 87 58 72.3 -1 153 3407 +222 Princeton 0.52 19.47 2.71 -2.77 -0.86 88 58 72.8 -1 156 3338 +181 Quicksand 1.28 16.80 3.50 -5.21 -0.09 86 58 71.9 +1 151 3056 +398 Somerset 1.07 20.26 4.70 -2.61 +1.14 86 59 74.5 +4 171 2975 +100 Spindletop 0.66 16.70 3.24 -4.56 -0.25 85 57 69.6 -1 135 2902 +87 Williamstown 1.02 22.12 3.64 +1.21 +0.31 83 57 70.6 -0 143 2910 +95 ================================================================================ 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., August 28, 2006 KGC 23-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Drier weather this week allowed Kentucky farmers to harvest more tobacco and corn. Some parts of the State had spotty showers toward the end of the week, with more comfortable temperatures. Most producers were optimistic about crop yields this year. Topsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 32 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus, as of Friday, August 25. Subsoil moisture was rated 9 percent very short, 38 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Farmers continued to cut and house tobacco, cut and bale hay, and harvest early maturing corn. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.9 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Some farmers experienced difficulty in finding enough workers to put up the tobacco crop. Housed tobacco continued to cure well with adequate humidity to bring it in and out of case. By Sunday, August 27, forty percent of the burley tobacco crop had been cut, above the previous year’s 37 percent and the five year average of 39 percent. Only 1 percent of the tobacco in the field was rated very poor, with 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Onethird of the dark tobacco was cut, also ahead of last year. In 2005, 27 percent of the dark tobacco was cut, with 32 percent for the average. CORN: A few more early maturing fields were harvested this week. Grain harvest should become more prevalent in the next week or so. Field corn condition as of Friday, August 25, was rated 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. Ninety percent of corn crop was in the dent stage or beyond. A year ago, it was 82 percent. The five year average was 84 percent. Nearly half the corn had matured, at 48 percent. Last year, 46 percent was matured, and the average was 44 percent. Harvested was at 5 percent, same as the average. It was 3 percent a year ago. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition was 1 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Projected yields look promising, though double-cropped soybeans could benefit from more rain. Eighty-four percent of the soybeans have set pods, slightly faster than the 81 percent for 2005, and 83 percent for the five year average. Only 8 percent had leaves turning yellow compared with 15 percent last year and 12 percent for the average. Three percent has dropped leaves, behind the 5 percent for a year ago and 4 percent on average. OTHER CROPS: The week was dry enough to allow hay to be cut and baled. A few farmers in drier areas had to feed hay to their livestock, and some were concerned about having enough hay for winter use. Pasture and hay conditions held steady this week. Two percent of the hay fields were rated very poor, 7 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. On Friday, August 25, pastures were rated 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period August 21 to August 27, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: After two consecutive weeks of above normal rainfall, below normal rainfall fell across the Commonwealth this past week. High pressure was dominant over the entire work week. Temperatures were comfortable for the first half of the work week as the high pressure system ushered in cool, dry air from Canada. By the weekend, high pressure began to break down as a cold front started to slowly move in from the Upper Midwest. Scattered showers and thunderstorms were felt over the weekend with the slowly approaching cold front. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal and 1 degree cooler than the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 86 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 65 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the mid 90s to a minimum in the upper 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.26 inches statewide which was 0.58 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.59 inches, Central 0.17 inches, Bluegrass 0.15 inches and East 0.12 inches, which was 0.20, 0.68, 0.71 and 0.75 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 2.17 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 21, 2006 KGC 22-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Two rounds of showers helped maintain crop growth throughout Kentucky. Average temperatures were cooler compared to the previous week, which was a welcome change. Recent rains improved the topsoil moisture, which was rated 5 percent very short, 32 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus, as of Friday, August 18. Subsoil moisture was rated 8 percent very short, 35 percent short, 54 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. During the week, most of the farm work consisted of equipment maintenance, working livestock, cutting tobacco and hay, chopping early maturing corn for silage, and seeding pastures. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.3 out of a possible 7 days. CORN: Some early maturing fields were chopped for silage. Corn harvest for grain is expected to occur within a couple of weeks. Field corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 42 percent excellent. Onefifth of the corn crop had matured, slower than a year ago at 23 percent, but faster than the five year average. Sixty percent of the corn acreage was in the dent stage, behind both last year, at 61 percent, and the average of 64 percent. Corn in the dough stage or beyond was at 92 percent, well ahead of 87 percent for the previous year and 86 percent for the average. SOYBEANS: Rainfall was beneficial to soybeans, especially for double-cropped fields. The condition of the soybeans improved to 2 percent rated as poor, 15 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Soybeans setting pods, as of Sunday, August 20, was 76 percent. Progress was faster than both last year’s rate of 73 percent, and the five year average of 69 percent. Ninety-one percent was in the blooming stage or beyond, more than 90 percent for a year ago and 87 percent for the average. TOBACCO: Twenty-six percent of the burley tobacco crop has been cut. That was the same as the five year average, but was slower than last year’s progress of 30 percent. The condition of the tobacco still in the field was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Blue mold, black shank, and insects did not pose a big problem last week. Early housed tobacco was curing well. By Sunday, August 20, 21 percent of the dark tobacco was cut, more than 17 percent for a year ago, but behind the 22 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition improved in areas of the State receiving rain. Other areas not receiving the showers still need additional moisture. On Friday, August 18, pastures were rated 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Additional hay was cut and baled this week in between showers. Hay condition changed little over the past week. One percent was rated very poor, 12 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period August 14 to August 20, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: The trend of above normal temperatures continued this past week, as this was the sixth straight week of above normal temperatures for the Commonwealth. On Monday high pressure dominated the weather pattern, but by Tuesday a cold front dropped into the Ohio River Valley and brought showers and thunderstorms to the state. The rest of the work week remained dry as high pressure took hold. By the weekend, another cold front moved into the Ohio River Valley and blanketed the state with rainfall. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal but 2 degrees cooler than the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 86 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 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 4 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the mid 90s to a minimum in the upper 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.17 inches statewide which was 0.33 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.13 inches, Central 1.74 inches, Bluegrass 0.99 inches and East 0.85 inches, which was +0.34, +0.89, +0.13 and -0.03 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Covington to a high of 2.69 inches at Bowling Green. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 14, 2006 KBM 21-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky received welcome and widespread rains last week. The most significant amounts of precipitation were received in western and central Kentucky. Some locales, especially southeastern parts of the State are still in need of moisture to benefit stressed crops. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 11, was rated 8 percent very short, 30 percent short, 59 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 8 percent very short, 34 percent short, 56 adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.1 days out of a possible 7 days. Along with general farm work; farm activities last week included topping and cutting tobacco, spraying tobacco for blue mold and baling hay. TOBACCO: Tobacco condition was mostly good to excellent with 1 percent rated very poor, 5 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Blue mold is still a presence across the State, but not generally considered severe. There were a few reports of black shank. Farmers have started cutting their tobacco. As of Sunday, August 13, 11 percent of the burley had been cut, just behind the average of 12 percent, but ahead of the 9 percent cut a year ago. Fifty-nine percent of the burley had been topped, behind both the five year average of 66 percent and last year’s 64 percent. Four percent of the dark tobacco has been cut, compared to last year’s 7 percent and 9 percent for the five year average. Three-fourth’s of the dark tobacco has been topped, behind 81 percent for last year and 85 percent on average. CORN: Forty-four percent of the corn acreage was in the dent stage, just behind 45 percent last year and 46 percent for average. Sixty-six percent was in the dough stage or beyond, the same as a year earlier, but behind the five year average of 71 percent. Eighty-six percent was in the milk stage or beyond, compared to 89 percent a year ago and the five year average of 90 percent. Corn condition was mostly good to excellent with 4 percent poor, 10 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Fifty-five percent of the soybeans were setting pods, behind last year’s 60 percent, but only slightly behind the average of 56 percent. As of Sunday, August 13, 77 percent of soybeans were blooming, behind 81 percent a year ago and the five year average of 79 percent. Overall, the soybean condition remained steady with 3 percent rated as poor, 14 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 27 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Hay was harvested and baled as weather permitted last week. Overall hay condition declined some last week, but still remains in mostly fair to good condition, with 3 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. As of Friday, August 11, pasture condition had also declined, with 4 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Some areas of the State need more rain to green up pastures. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period August 7 to August 13, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: After three consecutive weeks of below normal rainfall, above normal rainfall fell across the Commonwealth this past week. The work week started off warm and humid as high pressure dominated the weather pattern. By Tuesday, a cold front moved into the Ohio River Valley and stalled over Kentucky. Rain fell in portions of the state Tuesday and Wednesday, with benefitial rainfall coming state-wide on Thursday and Friday. By the weekend, high pressure moved in and brought cooler and drier conditions to the Bluegrass. Temperatures for the period averaged 79 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal, and 3 degrees cooler than the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 90 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 71 degrees in the West to 70 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 temperatures ranged from a maximum in the upper 90s to a minimum in the low 60s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.36 inches statewide which was 0.52 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.70 inches, Central 1.54 inches, Bluegrass 1.19 inches and East 1.02 inches, which was 0.91, 0.69, 0.33 and 0.15 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.07 inches at Quicksand to a high of 4.24 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 7, 2006 KGC 20-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: A week of hot, humid weather was experienced by Kentucky farmers. Very few places received much precipitation. The hot, dry humid conditions have started to stress livestock and crops throughout the State. On Friday, August 4, topsoil moisture was rated 13 percent very short, 39 percent short, 46 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 9 percent very short, 39 percent short, 49 adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.3 days out of a possible 7 days. Farm activities continued to include baling hay, spraying and topping tobacco, and tobacco barn maintenance. TOBACCO: Crop condition did not change much over the week with 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Seventy percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond as of Sunday, August 6. Blooming rate was further advanced than last year’s 63 percent, but the same as the five year average. Tobacco topped at 51 percent was greater than the five year average of 48 percent and the previous year at 45 percent. Dark tobacco topped at 70 percent was lower than the 78 percent for 2005 and the five year average. Blue mold remained active in the State. A few fields of early set tobacco were cut this week. Most farmers prepared their barns for housing tobacco in the next few weeks. CORN: Three-fourths of the corn crop was in the milk stage or beyond, behind last year’s 81 percent and 83 percent for the five year average. Fifty-one percent was in the dough stage, compare to 53 percent in 2005 and 59 percent for the average. Percent in the dent stage was at 27, same as a year ago but behind the five year average of 31 percent. The corn condition improved a little this week with 4 percent poor, 9 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 42 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Half of the soybean crop was setting pods, up from the 35 percent a year earlier, but still slower than the five year average of 56 percent. Fields need adequate rainfall for blooms and pod development. Seventy-four percent of soybeans have bloomed, up one percent from the average and ahead of last year’s 62 percent. Crop condition was rated at 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 29 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pastured suffered last week with the hot, dry weather. Conditions dropped slightly to 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. As of Friday, August 4, hay condition was 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Farmers continued to cut and bale hay while weather conditions favored such activity. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period July 31 to August 06, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: The trend of above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall continued this past week. High pressure dominated during most of the work week as conditions were hot, humid, and dry. By Friday, a weak cold front made its way into the Ohio Valley bringing temporary relief from the sultry conditions. Widespread showers and thunderstorms were touched off by the cold front. By the weekend, high pressure again built back into the region. Temperatures for the period averaged 82 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal and 4 degrees above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 92 in the West to 92 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 6 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the upper 90s to a minimum in the mid 60s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.07 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.09 inches and East 0.14 inches, which was 0.76, 0.88, 0.79 and 0.77 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 1.68 inches at Bristol. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 31, 2006 KBM 19-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week started out hot and dry and ended hot and steamy. Some areas received welcome rains on Thursday and Friday. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 28, was rated 7 percent very short, 25 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 8 percent very short, 24 percent short, 65 adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.5 days out of a possible 7 days. Farm activities last week included baling hay, spraying tobacco for blue mold, topping tobacco, and spraying soybeans for weeds. TOBACCO: Although the blue mold presence is widespread, many producers have been spraying; which, along with hot dry weather, has helped keep the blue mold threat somewhat in check up to this point. There was very little change in tobacco condition last week with 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. As of Sunday, July 30, 58 percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, ahead of the five year average of 54 percent and last year’s 46 percent. Thirty-six percent of the burley had been topped, well ahead of the five year average of 29 percent, and last year’s 24 percent. Fifty-nine percent of the dark tobacco has been topped, behind last year and average. CORN: The corn crop was still rated mostly good to excellent, with good yields expected. The corn condition slipped only slightly and was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 12 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 42 percent excellent. Ninety-two percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 30, behind last year’s 96 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 90 percent. Sixtyseven percent was in the milk stage or beyond, ahead of last year’s 59 percent, and the five year average of 65 percent. Thirty-eight percent was in the dough stage or beyond, ahead of last year’s 33 percent, but behind the five year average of 40 percent. Sixteen percent of the corn acreage was in the dent stage, up from the 10 percent last year at this time and 15 percent for average. SOYBEANS: Thirty-five percent of the soybeans were setting pods, significantly behind last year’s 50 percent, but just ahead of the five year average of 34 percent. These soybeans will need timely rains during this critical stage of development for adequate podfill. As of Sunday, July 30, 62 percent of soybeans were blooming, behind last year’s 72 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 60 percent. Overall, the soybean condition declined slightly with 1 percent rated as very poor, 4 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 29 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: One of the main activities of the past week continued to be baling hay. Hay condition remains in mostly fair to good condition, with 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. As of Friday, July 28, the pasture condition had declined slightly due to the hot weather, with 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period July 24 to July 30, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: High pressure was firmly entrenched over the Ohio Valley throughout the work week last week as hot and dry weather was felt across all of the Commonwealth. By the end of the work week, the high pressure system moved to the east and a weak cold front made its way into the area. Spotty showers and thunderstorms occurred Thursday, with Friday being the day with the most widespread rain coverage. High pressure once again set in over the weekend, ushering in more hot and humid weather. Temperatures for the period averaged 78 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal and 1 degree below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 88 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 68 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the mid 90s to a minimum in the upper 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.42 inches statewide which was 0.64 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.71 inches, Central 0.44 inches, Bluegrass 0.17 inches and East 0.34 inches, which was 0.21, 0.67, 0.89 and 0.79 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 1.38 inches at Mayfield. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 24, 2006 JMB 18-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week was hot and humid with farmers receiving less rain than the previous week. The high heat and humidity began to stress the crops and livestock. Although some rain was received, more rain is needed. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 21, was rated 6 percent very short, 27 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 24 percent short, 65 adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.6 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included baling hay, spraying tobacco for blue mold, topping tobacco, and spraying for weeds. TOBACCO: There were 48 counties with confirmed blue mold sightings, up from 43 counties a week ago. Although the blue mold presence has increased slightly, the rate at which it has spread throughout the State has slowed down. The tobacco condition improved due to good growing conditions with 4 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. As of Sunday, July 23, 40 percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, the same as the five year average, and ahead of last year’s 37 percent. Eighteen percent of the burley had been topped, the same as the five year average, and ahead of last year’s 17 percent. Thirty-three percent of the dark tobacco has been topped. CORN: The corn crop looks very good with continued optimism for high yields. The corn condition was rated 6 percent poor, 9 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 50 percent excellent. Eighty-five percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 23, behind last year’s 92 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 83 percent. Fifty percent was in the milk stage or beyond, behind last year’s 55 percent, and the five year average of 51 percent. Sixteen percent was in the dough stage or beyond, behind last year’s 19 percent, and the five year average of 24 percent. SOYBEANS: Some of the soybeans have reached a critical stage of growth and need rain to sustain development. As of Sunday, July 23, 58 percent of soybeans were blooming, behind last year’s 68 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 48 percent. Twentynine percent of the soybeans were setting pods, behind last year’s 42 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 24 percent. Overall, the soybean condition improved with 2 percent rated as poor, 20 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 34 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: One of the main activities continued to be baling hay. The hay condition remained primarily unchanged, with 64 percent rated good to excellent. Hay condition as of Friday, July 21 was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. As of Friday, July 21, the pasture condition had declined slightly in the hot, dry weather, with 6 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period July 17, 2006 to July 23, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Rainfall: After experiencing above normal rainfall last week, near normal rainfall fell across the Bluegrass State this past week. High pressure dominated our weather during most of the work week as hot, dry, and humid conditions were felt. By friday a cold front moved into the Ohio River Valley and brought cooler temperatures and rain across the state. Cool temperatures and clear skies made for a pleasant weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 79 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal and the same as the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 90 in the West to 89 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged near normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 69 degrees in the West to 69 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. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the upper 90s to a minimum in the upper 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.99 inches statewide which was 0.06 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.97 inches, Central 1.65 inches, Bluegrass 0.83 inches and East 0.53 inches, which was +0.04, +0.54, -0.23 and -0.60 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.10 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 2.74 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 17, 2006 JMB 17-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The State received 2.10 inches of much needed rain this week, 1.04 inches above normal. The average temperature for the week was 79 degrees, 3 degrees above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 14, was rated 3 percent very short, 19 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 15 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 20 percent short, 66 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Due to the rain received over most of the State, days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.5 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included baling hay, spraying tobacco for blue mold, soybeans for weeds, and topping tobacco. TOBACCO: There were 43 counties with confirmed blue mold sightings, up from 25 counties a week ago. The blue mold presence has been mostly in the middle to eastern portion of the State. The tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. As of Sunday, July 16, 20 percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, the same as last year, but behind the five year average of 22 percent. Seven percent of the burley had been topped, the same as the five year average and up from last year’s 3 percent. Thirty-one percent of the dark tobacco was blooming or beyond, behind last year’s 33 percent, and the five year average of 32 percent. CORN: The rains received last week have helped the corn, and the potential yield looks good. The condition of the corn was rated 2 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. Seventy-five percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 16, behind last year’s 77 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 74 percent. Twenty-eight percent of the corn was in the milk stage or beyond, behind last year’s 43 percent, and the five year average of 35 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 16, 41 percent of soybeans were blooming, behind last year’s 53 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 35 percent. Seventeen percent of the soybeans were setting pods, ahead of last year’s 13 percent and the five year average of 10 percent. The soybean condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. The rain, where received, last week will help the development of the double crop soybeans. OTHER CROPS: One of the main activities this week was baling hay. Hay condition as of Friday, July 14, was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. The condition of pastures has improved as well with the percent rated good to excellent increasing 5 percent. The condition of the pastures as of Friday, July 14, was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period July 10 to July 16, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: After 6 weeks of near or below normal rainfall, above normal rainfall fell across the commonwealth this past week. The work week started off cool and wet as a stationary front remained to our north. Beneficial rainfall fell each day during the work week with high temperatures in the 80s to mid 90s. By the weekend, high pressure moved into the Ohio Valley and above normal temperatures were felt along with dry conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 79 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal and 6 degrees above the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 87 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 71 degrees in the West to 70 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme temperatures ranged from a maximum in the mid 90s to a minimum in the mid 60s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.10 inches statewide which was 1.04 inches above normal. Locally heavy rain occurred in the West, Central, and Bluegrass areas of 3 to 4 inches. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 3.59 inches, Central 1.97 inches, Bluegrass 1.91 inches and East 0.91 inches, which was +2.66, +0.87, +0.85 and -0.22 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.13 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 5.04 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 10, 2006 JMB 16-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of the State received much needed rain this week, after nearly 5 weeks of below normal rainfall. There are some parts of the State that still need rain. The average temperature for the week was 73 degrees, 2 degrees below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 7, was rated 4 percent very short, 31 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 25 percent short, 67 adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.1 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included baling hay, topping early set tobacco, and harvesting wheat. TOBACCO: Tobacco has limited disease presence, with blue mold and blank shank being the most common reported. There were 25 counties with confirmed blue mold sightings, mostly in the eastern part of the State. The tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. As of Sunday, July 9, 50 percent of the tobacco plants were under 24 inches in height, 30 percent 24-36 inches in height, and 20 percent were over 36 inches. CORN: The corn crop is silking, and the potential yields on the early planted corn looks good. The rain received this past week helped, but rain is still needed to continue good crop development. The condition of the corn was rated 5 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. Seventy-one percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 9, well ahead of both last year and the five year average of 63 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 9, 31 percent of soybeans were blooming, behind last year’s 41 percent, but ahead of the five year average of 22 percent. Four percent of the soybeans were setting pods, ahead of the five year average of 1 percent. The soybean condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 27 percent excellent. The early planted soybeans look good. The rains received last week were beneficial, but more rain is needed for the development of the late planted double crop soybeans. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvested was 98 percent complete as of Sunday, July 9. The same percent was harvested last year at this time, and is slightly ahead of the five year average of 97 percent. The wheat yield and quality is reported to be good to excellent. OTHER CROPS: One of the main activities this week was baling hay. The hay condition varies throughout the State, depending on how much rain the hay fields have received. Hay condition as of Friday, July 7 was rated 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. The condition of pastures has improved slightly, with conditions as of Friday, July 7 rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period July 3 to July 9, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: After nearly 5 weeks of below normal rainfall, above normal rainfall fell across the Commonwealth this past week. The work week started off dry with highs in the 90s across much of the region. By Tuesday and Wednesday, a cold front approached from the north and brought widespread rainfall and below normal temperatures to the Commonwealth. High pressure built in by the end of the work week and stayed through the weekend. Cool temperatures and dry conditions followed and made for a pleasant weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 2 degrees below the previous weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 83 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 64 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid 90s with extreme low temperatures in the mid 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.15 inches statewide which was 0.09 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.59 inches, Central 1.16 inches, Bluegrass 1.03 inches and East 1.82 inches, which was -0.34, +0.05, -0.03 and +0.69 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.10 inches at Berea to a high of 2.95 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 3, 2006 TNS 15-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The State needs widespread precipitation to maintain crop development, despite localized reports of heavy rainfall in some spotty eastern locations. Precipitation during the week was 0.19 inches which was 0.75 inches below normal. Crops could lose some yield potential due to the lack of soil moisture. The average temperature was the same as the previous week at 75 degrees. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 30, was rated 5 percent very short, 31 percent short, 59 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 29 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. With the lack of rain, fieldwork for the week ending June 30, averaged 5.8 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included wheat combining, soybean planting, cultivating tobacco, baling hay, and mowing pastures where needed. TOBACCO: Most of the tobacco crop throughout the State has limited disease presence. However, increased blue mold is affecting the tobacco crop in some eastern and central counties. Black shank and flea beetles were also reported in the eastern part of the State. The tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. As of Sunday, July 2, 52 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, 35 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 13 percent were over 24 inches. CORN: Some corn began twisting from lack of moisture. The condition of the corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. Forty-nine percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 2, well ahead of last year’s 37 percent, and the 5-year average of 41 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 2, 97 percent of the soybeans have been planted, well ahead of both last year’s 82 percent, and the 5-year average of 81 percent. Soybean blooming was at 18 percent, well behind last year’s 33 percent, but just ahead of the 5-year average of 14 percent. The soybean condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. The soybean crop has been least affected by the dry weather but still needs additional rain, especially for germination of recently planted double crop soybeans. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat harvested was 95 percent completed as of Sunday, July 2, just ahead of last year’s 92 percent, and the 5-year average of 89 percent. Optimism for excellent wheat yields and grain quality remain high. OTHER CROPS: The dry weather has allowed farmers windows of opportunity to bale and haul hay. The second cutting of hay is well underway statewide. Pasture condition deteriorated due to lack of rainfall. Pasture condition as of Friday, June 30 was rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period June 26 to July 02, 2006 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: After seeing benefitial rainfall the previous week, below normal rainfall fell across the Commonwealth this past week. A stationary front established itself across Eastern Kentucky bringing scattered showers to east and central portions of the state. By mid-week a weak cold front moved through bringing showers to the northern portion of Kentucky and above normal temperatures to the west. Over the weekend high pressure had settled in and hot, dry conditions were present. There were unoffical reports of isolated rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches in far Eastern Kentucky early in the work week. Temperatures were near normal during the work week and above normal during the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was near normal and the same as last weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from near normal in the West to near normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 64 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low to mid 90s with extreme low temperatures in the mid 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.19 inches statewide which was 0.75 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.16 inches, Central 0.25 inches, Bluegrass 0.23 inches and East 0.12 inches, which was 0.71, 0.72, 0.70 and 0.85 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Berea to a high of 0.89 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 26, 2006 TNS 14-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The State received scattered rains last week, which helped the crops in some areas. For the week the western part of the State remains short of rain. The central, bluegrass and eastern parts of the State received average and above average amounts respectively. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 23, was rated 5 percent very short, 22 percent short, 56 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 21 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus. With intermittent rain, fieldwork for the week ending June 23, averaged 4.6 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included baling and hauling hay, intermittent small grain harvest, and side dressing of tobacco. TOBACCO: Most of the tobacco crop shows only limited disease presence. There have been reports of blue mold in several of the central and the east central counties of the State. Most of the blue mold problem seems to stem from infected plants from out of state. The general appearance of the crop is excellent at this time. The tobacco condition was rated 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. As of Sunday, June 25, 67 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, 26 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 7 percent were over 24 inches. CORN: The corn crop in western Kentucky needs rain to complement the natural rise in the seasonal temperature. There was one report of heavy damage because of an isolated hailstorm in Daviess county. The condition of the corn was rated 3 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. Twenty percent of the corn has tasseled or is tasseling as of Sunday, June 25, well ahead of last year’s 14 percent, but behind the five year average of 28 percent. Eight percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, June 25, this was the same as last year, but behind the five-year average of 15 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 25, 98 percent of the single-crop soybeans were planted, behind the 100 percent of last year, but ahead of the five-year average of 94 percent. The percent of double-crop soybeans planted was at 56 percent, just behind both last year’s 62 percent and the five-year average of 58 percent. The total crop planted is approximately 88 percent. The percent of planted soybeans emerged was 91 percent, just behind last year’s 93 percent, but well ahead of the five-year average of 75 percent. There were no reports of soybeans blooming this week. The soybean condition was rated 2 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. The average soybean emerged height as of Sunday June 25 was 8 inches, just behind last year’s average of 12 inches. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat combining was 62 percent complete as of Sunday, June 25, just ahead of last year’s 60 percent, but behind the five year average of 65 percent. Barley harvested was 94 percent complete as of Sunday, June 25, behind both last year and the five-year average of 97 percent. Excellent wheat yields are anticipated across the wheat growing areas. Showers have delayed some wheat harvesting. OTHER CROPS: Farmers were dodging intermittent showers to bale and haul hay. Sorghum planting at 91 percent, is slightly behind both last year’s 94 percent, and the five-year average of 93 percent. Pasture conditions as of Friday, June 23 was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period June 19 to June 25, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Rainfall: After 3 weeks of below normal rainfall, a stationary front remained in the area for the entire week bringing with it showers and thunderstorms to the Commonwealth. The central and east portions of Kentucky saw the biggest benefit with above normal precipitation while Bluegrass area was near normal and the west below normal. Temperatures during the period were above normal for most of the state during the work week with near normal to below normal temperatures over the weekend. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal and 5 degrees above last weeks average. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 84 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from near normal in the West to near 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 2 degrees above normal in the West to 1 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90s with extreme low temperatures in the low 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.85 inches statewide which was 0.04 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.41 inches, Central 1.09 inches, Bluegrass 0.84 inches and East 1.07 inches, which was -0.45, +0.17, -0.04 and +0.16 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 1.98 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 19, 2006 TNS 13-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain is needed in some areas 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 other areas still need a soaking rain. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 16, was rated 4 percent very short, 24 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 24 percent short, 66 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. With intermittent rain, fieldwork for the week ending June 16, averaged 5.8 days out of a possible 7 days. The majority of fieldwork included baling and hauling hay, small grain harvest, and some late tobacco setting. TOBACCO: Most of the tobacco crop throughout the State has limited disease presence. There were reports of both black shank in the western part of the State and blue mold in the eastern central part of the State. There were reports of late setting of tobacco in the west. The general appearance of the crop is excellent at this time. The tobacco condition was rate 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 65 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. As of Sunday, June 18, 77 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, 19 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 4 percent were over 24 inches. Burley tobacco acreage set was 92 percent, compared to 93 percent for 2005, and 86 percent for the five year average. Dark tobacco acreage set was also 92 percent, compared to 97 percent for 2005, and 91 percent for the five year average. CORN: The corn crop in many areas would benefit from rain. There was a report of corn leaves rolling up to conserve moisture. The condition of the corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Seven percent of the corn has tasseled or is tasseling as of Sunday, June 18, well ahead of last year’s 2 percent, but behind the five year average of 10 percent. Two percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, June 18, but behind the five-year average of 3 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 18, 97 percent of the single-crop soybeans have been planted, ahead of both the 96 percent of last year, and the five-year average of 86 percent. The percent of double-crop soybeans planted was at 41 percent, well ahead of last year’s 11 percent and the five-year average of 20 percent. The total crop planted was 84 percent, slightly behind last year’s 88 percent, but ahead of the five-year average of 74 percent. The percent of planted soybeans emerged was 77, well behind last years 84 percent, but ahead of the five-year average of 66 percent. The soybean condition was rated 3 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. The average soybean emerged height as of Sunday June 18 was 6 inches, behind last year’s 9 inches, but equal to the five-year average. The soybean crop has been least affected by the intermittent dry weather, but recently planted double-crop soybeans need rain soon for germination and growth. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvested was 45 percent completed as of Sunday, June 18, well ahead of last year’s 13 percent, and the five year average of 27 percent. Barley harvested was 89 percent completed as of Sunday, June 18, ahead of both last year’s 86 percent, and the five-year average of 88 percent. The mild winter and favorable spring created conditions for excellent wheat yields. OTHER CROPS: Farmers were dodging intermittent showers to bale and haul hay. Sorghum planting at 87 percent, is slightly behind last year’s 90 percent, but ahead of the five-year average of 82 percent. Thirty percent of the second alfalfa cutting has been completed as of Sunday, June 18. For the second cutting of hay it was hard to get enough extended dry periods. There were several reports of hay being baled wet. Pasture conditions as of Friday, June 16 was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 12 to June 18, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: The work week started out cool and wet with showers and thunderstorms statewide. Weather conditions dried on Tuesday but continued cool. Warm, muggy weather conditions occurred on Thursday as high pressure moved east of the Commonwealth and continued through most of the weekend...which ended with widespread showers late Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees 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 60 degrees in the West to 57 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. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90s and extreme low temperatures were in the low 50s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.67 inches statewide which was 0.22 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.01 inches, Central 0.74 inches, Bluegrass 0.38 inches and East 0.55 inches, which was +0.15, -0.18, -0.50 and -0.37 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Campbellsville to a high of 2.61 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 12, 2006 RPT 12-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Mostly cool and dry weather early in the week gave way to more summer like conditions at the end of the week. Planting soybeans, setting tobacco making hay and clipping pastures were the major farm activities. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.4 out of a possible 7. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.43 inches statewide, which was 0.46 inches below normal. Northern and Central Kentucky received most of the moisture. Average temperature across Kentucky was 69 degrees, 3 degrees below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 9 was rated 3 percent very short, 18 percent short, 71 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 16 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Most crops were reported in good to excellent condition with few significant disease or pest problems at this point. TOBACCO: Eighty-one percent of the burley tobacco was set as of Sunday June 11, slightly behind last year’s 88 percent but ahead of the five year average of 78. Dark tobacco setting reached 82 percent complete, compared with 81 percent a year ago and the five year average of 79 percent. As of Sunday, June 11, 90 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, with 9 percent at 12-24 inches, and 1 percent over 24 inches high. Set tobacco was rated 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 67 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Blue mold continues to be a concern in Eastern and Central Kentucky with a few severe outbreaks. CORN: Corn planting is complete except for some replanting and river bottom land too wet to plant yet. Almost all of the corn had emerged as of Sunday June 11. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Army worms and corn borers were a concern in isolated areas. SOYBEANS: Soybeans were 82 percent planted as of Sunday June 11, similar to last year’s 84 percent but ahead of the five year average of 67 percent. About 62 percent of the planted acres had emerged, behind the 76 percent reported a year ago but above the average of 56. Soybean condition was rated 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, June 9, wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Harvest was 15 percent complete, well ahead of the 3 percent reported last year and the average of 7. Some wheat was being cut for hay. Barley harvest was 85 percent complete, compared with 32 percent last year, and the average of 55. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pastures were rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. As of Sunday, June 11, 70 percent of the grain sorghum acreage had been planted which was well behind the 89 percent reported a year ago but similar to the average of 71. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period June 5 to June 11, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: The week started cool and mostly dry with only isolated showers through Wednesday for the Commonwealth. Then temperatures warmed from mid-week into Saturday. Sunday was cool for the northern half of the state...warmer for the south due to a stalled frontal system. Several days with temperatures in the 90s occurred in the weatern half of the state...but the eastern half of the state didn't report any days with temperatures in the 90s. Most of the rainfall for the past week occurred in central and northern sections of the state with 1 to 2 inches of rainfall from showers and thunderstorms... while many western locations didn't receive any rainfall the entire week. Temperatures for the 7 day period averaged 69 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal and 1 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 58 degrees in the West to 55 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. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90s and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 40s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.43 inches statewide which was 0.46 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.38 inches, Bluegrass 0.82 inches and East 0.48 inches, which was 0.81, 0.54, 0.06 and 0.44 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green, Paduach and Princeton...to a high of 1.68 inches at Williamstown. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 5, 2006 RPT 11-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Mid-week showers slowed fieldwork over Central and Western Kentucky, hampering fieldwork and making hay harvest difficult. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.1 out of a possible 7. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.89 inches statewide, which was 0.07 inches below normal. Average temperature across Kentucky was 73 degrees, 3 degrees above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 2 was rated 2 percent very short, 9 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 19 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 14 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Small grain fields continue to have problems with lodging. Major field activities included planting soybeans, setting tobacco and cutting hay. Small grain harvest was getting underway. TOBACCO: Setting progressed rapidly when field conditions permitted with 68 percent of the burley tobacco set as of Sunday June 4. This is slightly behind last year’s 72 percent but ahead of the five year average of 63. Dark tobacco setting reached 53 percent complete, well behind the 74 percent recorded a year ago and the five year average of 65 percent. As of Sunday, June 4, 97 percent of transplants were under 12 inches in height, with just 3 percent 12-24 inches high. Set tobacco was rated 2 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 65 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Blue mold has been detected in a few Central and Eastern Kentucky greenhouses, with some concern that set plants in limited areas may also have the disease. CORN: Corn planting is virtually complete. Producers may reseed a few flooded fields and there may be a few more fields to plant in northern Kentucky. About 94 percent of the corn had emerged, slightly behind last year’s 97 percent but above the five year average of 89 percent. The average emerged corn height was 19 inches, with the most advanced fields at 32 inches in height. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. No major pest problems were reported. SOYBEANS: Soybeans were 68 percent planted as of Sunday June 4, trailing last year’s 80 percent but above the five year average of 55 percent. About 46 percent of the planted acres had emerged, behind the 72 percent reported a year ago but close to the average of 45. Soybean condition was rated 6 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, June 2, winter wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Continued wet weather caused some concern with grain quality. Lodging is becoming more of a concern with continued showers. Wheat harvest was getting underway and barley harvest was 20 percent complete, compared with 11 percent last year, but behind the five year average of 27. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pastures were rated 3 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Quality of the hay harvested has been reduced due to poor curing conditions. As of Sunday, June 4, 57 percent of the grain sorghum acreage had been planted which was well behind the 81 percent reported a year ago and trailed the average of 61. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period May 29 to June 4, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Slightly Below Normal Rainfall: Very mild, dry conditions started out the work week thru mid-week. A cold front approached the Commonwealth later on Wednesday...and by Thursday the weather pattern changed to wet and cool...which lasted into the start of the weekend. Drier conditions returned with near normal temperatures on Saturday and Sunday. Scattered showers occurred in the west and south on Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 84 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from near normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 64 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 2 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.89 inches statewide which was 0.07 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.40 inches, Central 0.93 inches, Bluegrass 0.46 inches and East 0.79 inches, which was +0.44, -0.07, -0.48 and -0.17 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Quicksand to a high of 3.21 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 30, 2006 RPT 10-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Mid to late week storms dropped up to 7 inches of rain in a few areas of central Kentucky, slowing fieldwork and hay harvest. Storms were followed by very warm weather which promoted plant development. Temperatures were above normal for the first time in 3 weeks. Average temperature across Kentucky was 68 degrees, 1 degree above normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 1.23 inches statewide, which was 0.17 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 26 was rated 1 percent very short, 6 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 24 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 12 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 18 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.5 out of a possible 7 days. Heavy rain caused some localized flooding, which washed out parts of fields. Wind associated with the storms caused some lodging in wheat and barley. TOBACCO: Setting progressed rapidly when field conditions permitted with 47 percent of the burley tobacco set as of Sunday May 28. This is slightly behind last year’s 48 percent but ahead of the five year average of 43. Dark tobacco setting reached 30 percent complete, well behind the 61 percent recorded a year ago and the five year average of 47 percent. As of Friday, May 26 set tobacco was rated 1 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 70 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Most growers report few disease and insect problems so far, but blue mold was detected in a few transplants in Eastern Kentucky late in the week. CORN: Corn planting is nearly complete except in the eastern and northern parts of Kentucky. Pro ducers had seeded 97 percent of their intended acreage as of Sunday, May 28, unchanged from last year, and ahead of the five year average of 90 percent. About 92 percent of the corn had emerged, slightly behind last year’s 93 percent but above the five year average of 84 percent. The average emerged corn height was 15 inches, with the most advanced fields at 25 inches in height. Corn condition was rated 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. A few fields may need to be replanted after the heavy rain late in the week. SOYBEANS: Soybeans were 50 percent planted as of Sunday May 28, trailing last year’s 75 percent but above the five year average of 44 percent. About 25 percent of the planted acres had emerged, behind the 57 percent reported a year ago and the average of 34. Soybean condition was rated 6 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 26, winter wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Disease and pest issues seem to be minor at this time. Heavy rains caused some lodging. Barley harvest was just underway in the southern part of the State. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pastures were rated 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Hay crops were rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Cool weather and heavy rains have delayed hay harvest. As of Sunday, May 28, 45 percent of the sorghum acreage had been planted compared to 57 percent last year at this time. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period May 22 to 28, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: The work week started out cool with temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s and showers and thunderstorms in the west and southwest. By mid-week, a significant warming trend reversed May's near-record cool temperatures...and brought summer-like heat into the Commonwealth. Showers and severe thunderstorms ended the short dry spell with copious rainfall to many parts of the state on Thursday and Friday, especially central and south. Temperatures for the week averaged 68 degrees across the state which was one degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 59 degrees in the West to 54 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from near normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 90s and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 30s to low 40s. Western locations received 5 days with high temperatures near or above 90 degrees. Eastern northern locations reported only 1 day in the upper 80s to near 90 degrees. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.23 inches statewide which was 0.17 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.25 inches, Central 1.32 inches, Bluegrass 1.18 inches and East 1.17 inches, which was 0.15, 0.21, 0.16 and 0.17 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Mayfield to a high of 4.00 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 22, 2006 SAL 9-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Planting and crop development continued to be hampered by cloudy, cool, weather. Rainfall was below normal across the State, however sprinkles, light showers, and isolated thunderstorms prevented some fieldwork. Temperatures were below normal during the week, averaging 59 degrees across the State, 8 degrees below normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.62 inches statewide, which was 0.44 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 19 was rated 3 percent short, 68 percent adequate and 29 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 8 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.6 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Twenty-three percent of the burley tobacco has been set, slightly behind last year and the five year average. Fifteen percent of the dark tobacco was set, 17 percent behind last year, and progress also lagged the five year average of 28 percent. As of Friday, May 19, set tobacco was rated 2 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Some farmers report cold injury to their tobacco plants, and needed the ground to dry in order to continue setting. ROW CROPS: Corn producers have seeded 95 percent of their acres, as of Sunday, May 21, compared to 94 percent last year, and 85 percent for the five year average. Crop emergence was reported at 81 percent, behind last year’s 83 percent and above the five year average of 76 percent. The average emerged corn height was 9 inches, with the most advanced height at 15 inches. Corn condition was rated 4 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Soybeans were 26 percent planted, behind last years 62 percent and below the five year average of 34 percent. Farmers report some soybeans are in need of replanting. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 19 winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Farmers report very little lodging in the small grains. Very little disease or insect problems have been reported in the small grains in spite of the cool, damp conditions. The winter wheat harvest is expected to begin June 14, and barley on June 7. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Hay crops were rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. As of Sunday, May 21, 40 percent of sorghum acreage had been planted compared to 39 percent last year at this time. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period May 15 to 21, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: The pesky, large low pressure system that stalled over northern Ohio Valley from the previous week continued to provide Kentucky with cloudy, very cool weather and, what folklorists call "Blackberry Winter," which is a return of cool temperatures when blackberry blooms are occurring in spring. Since the first of the month, Kentucky's cool temperatures were on track as the 2nd coolest May in the past 111 years, with only 1917's May temperatures cooler, so far. Yet, no frost occurred last week. The difference this week was below normal rainfall for the Commonwealth, except for east-central and south-central sections of the state. Mostly sprinkles, light showers and isolated thunderstorms threaten many locations on 4 to 6 days. Storms went severe at midweek, causing damage and at least one death in the state. Temperatures for the period averaged 59 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 72 in the West to 69 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 8 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 50 degrees in the West to 48 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 8 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were near 80 and extreme low temperatures were in the low 40's Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.62 inches statewide which was 0.44 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.63 inches, Central 0.49 inches, Bluegrass 0.94 inches and East 0.42 inches, which was 0.48, 0.62, 0.08 and 0.59 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.08 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 1.50 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 15, 2006 SAL 8-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Cloudy, cool, wet weather allowed for limited planting and crop development. Temperatures were below normal during the week, averaging 59 degrees across the State, 5 degrees below normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.94 inches statewide, which was 0.05 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 12 was rated 5 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 31 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 11 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.4 out of a possible 7 days. TOBACCO: Twelve percent of the burley tobacco was set, slightly ahead of last year and on par with the five year average. Six percent of the dark tobacco was set, 1 percent below last year, and behind the five year average of 12 percent. As of Friday, May 12, Set tobacco was rated at 1 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 65 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Tobacco producers were anxious for the fields to dry from the rain to continue tobacco setting. ROW CROPS: Corn producers have seeded 88 percent of their acres, as of Sunday, May 14, compared to 92 percent last year, and 80 percent for the five year average. Crop emergence was reported at 76 percent, ahead of last years 65 percent and above the five year average of 66 percent. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Soybeans were 18 percent planted behind last years 39 percent and below the five year average of 23 percent. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 12, winter wheat condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Some farmers report that the cool, wet weather has increased the disease level in the winter wheat crop, and rains have prevented spraying for disease. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. Hay crops condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. As of Sunday, May 14, 22 percent of sorghum acreage had been planted compared to 28 percent last year at this time. Strawberry growers reported 43 percent of their berries as small, 43 percent as medium, and 14 percent as large. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period May 8 to 14, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Rainfall: It was a cloudy, cool, wet week as a very strong low pressure system stalled over the northern Ohio Valley for most of the week. The first couple of days of the work week were dry with mild temperatures. Cooler temperatures dominated the remainder of the week with scattered to numerous showers through Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 59 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 68 in the West to 67 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 6 degrees below 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 4 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid 70s and extreme low temperatures were in the 40s. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.94 inches statewide which was near (-0.05) normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.10 inches, Central 0.97 inches, Bluegrass 0.75 inches and East 0.92 inches, which was +0.09, -0.12, -0.20 and -0.01 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 2.41 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 8, 2006 SKB 7-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures were near normal during the week, averaging 63 degrees across the State. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.83 inches statewide, which was 0.23 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 5 was rated 1 percent very short, 3 percent short, 73 percent adequate and 23 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 10 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.5 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities for the week included planting corn and soybeans, setting tobacco, tending livestock, and cutting hay. TOBACCO: Five percent of the burley tobacco was set, slightly ahead of last year and on par with the five year average. One percent of the dark tobacco was set, the same as last year, but behind the five year average of 4 percent. As of Sunday, May 7, 20 percent of tobacco plants were less than 2 inches in height, 40 percent were 2 to 4 inches, and 40 percent were larger than 4 inches. Ninety-seven percent of farmers report adequate tobacco plants for setting. ROW CROPS: Corn planting was nearing completion with 85 percent planted as of Sunday, May 7, ahead of both last year and the five year average. Seventy percent of the crop had emerged, also ahead of last year and the five year average. Corn condition was rated 2 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 31 percent excellent. Soybean planting increased to 12 percent over the past week, slightly behind last year and the five year average. SMALL GRAINS: Eighty-five percent of the winter wheat crop was in the heading stage as of Sunday, May 7, which is a week ahead of schedule. Some farmers report disease problems developing and have sprayed fungicides. As of Friday, May 5 winter wheat condition was rated 1 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Hay crops condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Some farmers reported cutting their first crop of hay in the past week. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period May 1 to 7, 2006 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: For the first full week of May, rainfall was quite variable with most locations receiving at least 3 days of measurable amounts ...and some western areas receiving rainfall 6 out of 7 days (ie., Paducah). For the remainder of the state, most locations were dry on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Mid-week was very warm with temperatures in the mid 70's to low 80's... with both ends of the period closer to normal temperatures. The western section of the state was considerably wetter than the remainder of the Commonwealth. Temperatures for the week averaged 63 degrees across the state which was near normal. High temperatures averaged from 73 in the West to 72 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 53 degrees in the West to 53 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. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.83 inches statewide which was 0.23 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.57 inches, Central 0.77 inches, Bluegrass 0.64 inches and East 0.35 inches, which was +0.46, -0.34, -0.39 and -0.66 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.08 inches at Huntington to a high of 3.12 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 1, 2006 SKB 6-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures were only slightly higher than normal, averaging 60 degrees across the State. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.88 inches statewide, which was 0.10 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 28 was rated 3 percent short, 78 percent adequate and 19 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 11 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.8 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities for the week included caring for tobacco float beds and preparing the ground for tobacco setting, repairing fences and barns, and corn and soybean planting. Farmers indicate that nitrogen supplies in their area are at 96 percent of normal. TOBACCO: Burley tobacco setting has just begun, and is slightly ahead of last year. No dark tobacco setting was reported. As of Sunday, April 30, 43 percent of tobacco plants were less than 2 inches in height, 35 percent were 2 to 4 inches, and 22 percent were larger than 4 inches. ROW CROPS: Planting progress slowed down this week due to a large number of days with precipitation. However, corn planting continued ahead of schedule with 72 percent of the intended acreage planted as of Sunday, April 30 compared to 69 percent last year and 66 percent for the five year average. The crop was 45 percent emerged as of Sunday, ahead of both last year and the five year average. Corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Soybean planting made limited progress, but was on par with last year and the five year average at 6 percent. SMALL GRAINS: Sixty percent of the winter wheat crop was in the heading stage as of Sunday, April 30, which is almost a week ahead of schedule. As of Friday, April 28 winter wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 4 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Hay crops condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Farmers reported wet weather limited spraying for alfalfa weevil. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period April 24 to April 30, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Rainfall: A low pressure system and associated cold front provided showers and scattered thunderstorms for the Commonwealth for the first few days of the work week along with temperatures in the 70's. After passage of the cold front, cooler temperatures in the upper 50's and low 60's and drier weather dominated the Bluegrass state. Mild temperatures returned by Friday and the weekend with a slow, soaking rain on Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 60 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 71 in the West to 71 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 51 degrees in the West to 49 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature near normal normal in the West to near normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 70's and extreme low temperatures were in the mid to upper 30's. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.88 inches statewide which was 0.10 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.11 inches, Central 1.03 inches, Bluegrass 0.93 inches and East 0.46 inches, which was +0.04, +0.02, -0.01 and -0.46 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.05 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 2.55 inches at Cape Girardeau. --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 24, 2006 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The Commonwealth experienced above normal temperatures and above normal rainfall for the week. Temperatures averaged 65 degrees, which was 6 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 1.47 inches statewide, which was 0.48 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 21 was rated 1 percent very short, 9 percent short, 71 percent adequate and 19 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 16 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.9 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities for the week included planting corn and soybeans and preparing equipment for cutting hay. TOBACCO: Ninety-six percent of tobacco plants are being grown in greenhouses compared to 4 percent in conventional beds. As of Sunday, April 23, 54 percent of tobacco plants were less than 2 inches, 28 percent were 2 to 4 inches, and 18 percent were larger than 4 inches. ROW CROPS: Many producers feel that corn planting will be finished in the next week. Planting continued ahead of schedule with 70 percent of the intended acreage planted as of Sunday, April 23 compared to 54 percent last year and 52 percent for the five year average. With the above average temperatures and rainfall, 32 percent of the corn crop had emerged as of Sunday, also. Corn was rated 1 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 29 percent excellent. Soybean planting began last week with 5 percent complete as of Sunday, April 23. SMALL GRAINS: Twenty-five percent of the winter wheat crop was in the heading stage as of Sunday, April 23. As of Friday, April 21 winter wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 30 percent excellent. Farmers report that the recent rain helped with winter wheat development. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Farmers report May 8 as the expected first cutting date of alfalfa. As of Friday, April 21, strawberry condition was rated 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period April 17 to 23, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: Showers and thunderstorms were frequent over the past 7 days as an upper-level low pressure system stalled near the Ohio Valley. Most locations recorded dry days on Tuesday and during most of the weekend. Very mild temperatures were the rule last week. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 70s to low 80s... and extreme low temperatures were in the mid 40s. Temperatures for the period averaged 65 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 76 in the West to 74 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 55 degrees in the West to 55 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.47 inches statewide which was 0.48 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.03 inches, Central 1.86 inches, Bluegrass 1.67 inches and East 1.31 inches, which was -0.05, +0.85, +0.73 and +0.39 inches respectively from normal. Louisville received the greatest weekly rainfall total of 4.70 inches...however, most of southern Kentucky received 2 to 3 inches over the entire area. Very few weather stations reported less than an inch of rainfall for the week..(ie. Paducah, 0.64"). --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 17, 2006 NLB 4-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Several days with temperatures near and exceeding 80 degrees with above normal temperatures the entire week. Temperatures averaged 66 degrees, which was 10 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.16 inches statewide, which was 0.82 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 14 was rated 1 percent very short, 14 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 11 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 17 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.4 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities for the week included seeding tobacco, corn planting, spreading manure, applying fertilizer, working livestock and fixing fences. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse tobacco seeding was 86 percent complete by Sunday, April 16. This compared with 83 percent in 2005 and 88 percent for the five year average. Tobacco transplants had emerged on 68 percent of the seeded beds and flats, compared to 62 percent for both last year and the five year average. Tobacco transplants condition was rated 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. CORN: Corn planting is going very well. Planting was ahead of schedule with 29 percent of the intended acreage planted as of Sunday, April 16 compared to 18 percent last year and 30 percent for the five year average. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, April 14 winter wheat condition was 2 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Barley was rated 14 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 37 percent excellent. Farmers report that dry conditions are helping wheat crop. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Farmers report pasture and hay fields are beginning to grow rapidly, with average alfalfa hay height at 9 inches. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period April 10 to 16, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: Several days with temperatures near and exceeding 80 degrees with above normal temperatures the entire week. Less active week for severe weather in Kentucky but storms were in the Ohio Valley during the latter half of the week. Temperatures for the period averaged 66 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 79 in the West to 78 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 14 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 54 degrees in the West to 52 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. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.16 inches statewide which was 0.82 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.10 inches, Bluegrass 0.34 inches and East 0.16 inches, which was 1.03, 0.90, 0.60 and 0.76 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 1.13 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 10, 2006 NLB 3-06 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week began dry and cool, but quickly warmed to the middle and upper 70s with severe storms and rain 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 averaged 53 degrees, which was near normal. Precipitation for the week totaled 1.26 inches statewide, which was 0.28 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 7 was rated 6 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 18 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 12 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.9 out of a possible 7 days. Main farming activities for the week included seeding tobacco, corn planting, spreading manure, applying fertilizer, working livestock and fixing fences. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse tobacco seeding was 80 percent complete by Sunday, April 9. This compared with 67 percent in 2005 and 75 percent for the five year average. Tobacco transplants had emerged on 47 percent of the seeded beds and flats, compared to 40 percent last year and 43 percent for the five year average. CORN: Planting was ahead of schedule with 15 percent of the intended acreage planted as of Sunday, April 9 compared to 7 percent last year and 14 percent for the five year average. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat that was planted on schedule last fall is doing well. Farmers report average wheat height at 11 inches. As of Friday, April 7 winter wheat condition was 1 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. Barley was rated 21 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS & PASTURE: Fruit trees were reported at 50 percent budding or in bloom, ahead of last year’s 48 percent but behind the five year average of 53 percent. Farmers report little or no freeze damage to early blooming fruits. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period April 3 to 9, 2006 Near Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: The first half of the work week was dry and cool. Severe storms moved into western Kentucky on Thursday as a extensive low pressure system approached from the central plains...and redeveloped on Friday for the entire state as the low moved into and thru the Commonwealth. Tornadoes were reported near Louisville, Spencer county and Lawrenceburg in Anderson county. Saturday was cool and dry with warmer temperatures on Sunday. This was the first week in the past four weeks with above normal rainfall. Temperatures for the period averaged 53 degrees across the state which was near normal. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 63 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 44 degrees in the West to 42 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. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.26 inches statewide which was 0.28 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.62 inches, Central 1.55 inches, Bluegrass 1.66 inches and East 1.24 inches, which was -0.45, +0.54, +0.72 and +0.32 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 2.67 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop & Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 3, 2006 NLB 2-06 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 5 degrees above normal at 55 degrees. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.51 inches statewide, which was 0.51 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, March 31 was rated 2 percent very short, 14 percent short, 71 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 4 percent very short, 16 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.5 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 28 percent of plowing and field preparation for planting was reported as complete. Nitrogen fertilizer supplies were reported to meet 97 percent of anticipated needs. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse seeding was only 67 percent complete by Sunday, April 2. This was up 34 percent from last year. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: Despite a relatively wet winter, Kentucky’s winter wheat crop is in mostly good to excellent condition. Producers reported 2 percent of the wheat lost due to winter kill. As of Sunday, April 2 winter wheat condition was 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. Barley acreage lost to winter kill was reported as 1 percent. Barley was rated 1 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Losses to alfalfa and red clover stands were 4 percent and 5 percent respectively. PASTURE & LIVESTOCK: Pasture condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. Only 25 percent of the current roughage requirements were being met from pastures. Some 81 percent of the state’s farms with livestock were still providing winter feed. Producers report that 23 percent of the winter hay supply was still on hand. Livestock were reported in mostly good condition. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period March 27 to April 2, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: The work week started off dry and cool. On Tuesday, a low pressure system moved across the state with light rainfall. Dry, warm conditions occurred Wednesday and Thurday. Showers and thunderstorms moved thru the Commonwealth on Friday and Sunday. Severe weather occurred with Sunday's storms. Temperatures for the period averaged 55 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 68 in the West to 68 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 9 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 43 degrees in the West to 44 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 80's and extreme low temperatures were in the mid to upper 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.51 inches statewide which was 0.51 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.44 inches, Central 0.49 inches, Bluegrass 0.80 inches and East 0.31 inches, which was 0.67, 0.55, 0.18 and 0.64 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 1.37 inches at Nashville. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period March 20 to 26, 2006 Below Normal Temperature and Below Normal Rainfall: A low pressure system passed south of the Commonwealth at the start of the work week which provided light snow for the northern half and light rain mixed for sleet for the remainder of the state. High pressure took control at mid-week which provided colder, drier weather throught Friday. An upper- level trough over the eastern Carolina's on Saturday brought clouds and mixed precipitation over the eastern half of Kentucky thru the afternoon hours. Sunday had drier conditions with some sunshine. The latest Palmer Drought Index indicated eastern Kentucky had returned to Moderate hydrologic drought with the remainder of the state closer to normal hydrologic moisture conditions. This is the first week to average well below normal temperatures in the past 4 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 36 degrees across the state which was 11 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 45 in the West to 44 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 18 degrees below normal in the West to 13 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 29 degrees in the West to 29 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 9 degrees below normal in the West to 7 degrees below normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.48 inches statewide which was 0.56 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.76 inches, Central 0.56 inches, Bluegrass 0.27 inches and East 0.31 inches, which was 0.36, 0.49, 0.72 and 0.65 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at Mayfield to a high of 1.33 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period March 13 to 19, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: The work week started off wet and very mild with temperatures in the 70's. Heavy rainfall from the previous weekend's storms lingered into Monday. The remainder of the week was mostly dry. Temperatures, on the other hand, cooled into Wednesday. Thursday was another very mild day across the Commonwealth with temperatures in the 60's. Friday through the weekend received cooler temperatures, closer to seasonal normal. Both Saturday and Sunday mornings low temperatures in the 20's were the coolest of the previous 7 days. Temperatures for the period averaged 47 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 58 in the West to 57 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 38 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees abvoe normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 70's and extreme low temperatures were in the low to mid 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.73 inches statewide which was 0.30 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.34 inches, Central 0.90 inches, Bluegrass 0.83 inches and East 0.87 inches, which was 0.79, 0.16, 0.17 and 0.09 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.25 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 1.51 inches at Williamstown. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period March 6 to 12, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: A very mild and wet week with severe thunderstorms moving thru the Bluegrass state. Rainfall totals ranged from 4 to 6 inches along and south of the Ohio River from Paducah to Covington. As such, flooding was reported in northern sections of the Commonwealth. The southern tier of counties along the TN/KY border reported one inch or less. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 70's with Paducah and Bowling Green reporting 80 degrees on Sunday. Extreme low temperatures were in the mid to upper 20's. Temperatures for the past week averaged 53 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 64 in the West to 62 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 10 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 46 degrees in the West to 43 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 13 degrees above normal in the West to 12 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.61 inches statewide which was 1.58 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 4.30 inches, Central 2.59 inches, Bluegrass 2.67 inches and East 0.88 inches, which was +3.18, +1.53, +1.68 and -0.08 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.26 inches at Quicksand to a high of 7.06 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period February 27 to March 5, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: It was the fourth week straight with below normal rainfall. The work week started with seasonal temperatures but by Wednesday temperatures soared into the low to mid 70s. Slightly below seasonal temperatures rounded out the weekend. Very light rainfall occurred later on Sunday. It was the first week with temperatures averaging above normal in the past four weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 46 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 60 in the West to 57 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 35 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low to mid 70s and extreme low temperatures were in the upper teens. Saturday was the coolest morning. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.02 inches statewide which was 0.97 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.03 inches, Central 0.02 inches, Bluegrass 0.04 inches and East 0.01 inches, which was 1.05, 1.01, 0.88 and 0.93 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 0.11 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period February 20 to 26, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: It was dry week. Light rainfall occurred on Monday (Feb 20) and Wednesday (Feb 22) in mostly the southern 2/3's of the state. Daily temperatures started off cold but warmed into the 50s and low 60s by Thursday. Mild temperatures continued until a cold front moved through the Commonwealth on Saturday, allowing a return to cold conditions on Sunday. Last Saturday (Feb 25) was the first time in 4 weeks with no snowfall or snowcover on Saturday across the state. Last week was also the 3rd consecutive week with both temperatures averaging below normal and precip averaging below normal. Temperatures for the previous 7 days averaged 38 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 48 in the West to 47 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 27 degrees in the West to 29 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 60s and extreme low temperatures were in the low teens. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.17 inches statewide which was 0.71 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.11 inches, Central 0.27 inches, Bluegrass 0.11 inches and East 0.19 inches, which was 0.83, 0.69, 0.65 and 0.67 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Covington to a high of 0.74 inches at Bristol. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period February 13 to 19, 2006 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation: Similar to the previous week, Kentucky's weather repeated itself: seasonal temperatures during the workweek, bitter cold air over the weekend with a winter storm kissing the Commonwealth with 1 to 3 inches of snow north ...3 to 5 inches south. But not enough liquid equvalnent precipitation to move into above normal precip category. Bitter cold air blew into the state over the weekend with extreme low temperatures into the single digits by Sunday morning...and wind chill temperatures below zero. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 60's and low 70's on Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures for the period averaged 37 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 45 in the West to 45 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to near normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 27 degrees in the West to 28 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from near normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.53 inches statewide which was 0.35 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.54 inches, Central 0.66 inches, Bluegrass 0.58 inches and East 0.35 inches, which was -0.41, -0.29, -0.18 and -0.52 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.18 inches at Huntington to a high of 0.78 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period February 6 to 12, 2006 BELOW NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: A major shift in the weather pattern occurred during the past week...from the very mild, wet weather experienced in the past January in the Commonwealth ...to winter temperatures and below normal precipitation...but an increase in snow events. For most of the workweek, mostly dry conditions occurred across the Bluegrass state. A low pressure system moved south of the state starting on Friday providing snow to the state through the weekend. Snowfall totals were light in the west with 1 to 3 inches, 3 to 4 inches central and 5 to 7 inches in the east with localized amounts in the southeast of up to 10 inches. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 40's and extreme low temperatures were in the mid to upper teens. Temperatures for the period averaged 31 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 39 in the West to 39 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees from below in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 22 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 near normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.29 inches statewide which was 0.59 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.26 inches, Central 0.26 inches, Bluegrass 0.24 inches and East 0.40 inches, which was 0.69, 0.70, 0.52 and 0.47 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.02 inches at Covington to a high of 0.73 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the January 30 to February 5, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: ...Kentucky Returns to a Winter Weather Pattern on the Weekend... The work week was very mild with rainfall in eastern Kentucky on Monday and Tuesday...and again for the entire state on Friday. Friday was also a transition day to a return to winter weather...with rain changing to snow by Saturday...ending Sunday east. Temperatures continued to drop into the low to mid 20s by Sunday and snowfall totals ranged from 1 to 3 inches. The return to winter-like conditions ended a very mild period of 35 to 43 days across the Commonwealth. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 60's and extreme low temperatures were in the low 20's. Temperatures for the period averaged 41 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 49 in the West to 49 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 8 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 9 degrees above normal in the West to 12 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.91 inches statewide which was 0.08 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.87 inches, Central 1.10 inches, Bluegrass 1.11 inches and East 0.57 inches, which was -0.01, +0.20, +0.39 and -0.26 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.17 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 1.65 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period January 23 to 29, 2006 Above Normal Temperature and Above Normal Rainfall: High pressure dominated the weather for the Commonwealth for most of the past 7 days. Low pressure systems crossed the state and provided two rainfall events...very similar to the previous week. Moderate to heavy rainfall occurred at the beginning of the period...ending in light snow in the east, and on Sunday light showers covered the state. Mild temperatures occurred on Tuesday and Friday thru Sunday as southerly wind flow kicked in, with temperatures readings in the 50's and 60's. This was the 3rd week straight with above normal rainfall. And, the final full week of January with above normal temperatures, as in the entire month with above normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 43 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 54 in the West to 52 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 12 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 33 degrees in the West to 33 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.47 inches statewide which was 0.75 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.11 inches, Central 1.71 inches, Bluegrass 1.63 inches and East 1.42 inches, which was 0.39, 0.95, 1.01 and 0.65 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.12 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 2.66 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period January 16 to 22, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Much Above Normal Rainfall: The very mild conditions continued across the Commonwealth during the past week. But one major change occurred; this was the second week with above normal rainfall across the state. This was the first time for a consecutive two-week period with above normal rainfall since last August. Rainfall totals ranged from 2 to 3 inches south...to 1 to 2 inches in the northern half of the state. Two significant rainfall events occurred; on Tuesday/ Wednesday (Jan 17/18) and on Sunday (Jan 22). Extreme high temperatures were in the mid to upper 60's and extreme low temperatures were in the mid 20's. Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 13 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 54 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 15 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 37 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 13 degrees above normal in the West to 15 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.11 inches statewide which was 1.39 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.59 inches, Central 2.74 inches, Bluegrass 2.04 inches and East 2.09 inches, which was 0.87, 1.98, 1.41 and 1.32 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.00 inches at Mayfield to a high of 3.54 inches at Nolin Lake. --- Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period Jan. 9 to 15, 2006 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation: Temperatures for the period averaged 43 degrees across the state which was 12 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 51 in the West to 53 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees above normal in the West to 15 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 33 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 15 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.20 inches statewide which was 0.48 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.79 inches, Central 1.53 inches, Bluegrass 0.99 inches and East 0.48 inches, which was +1.07, +0.76, +0.37 and -0.29 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.28 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 2.70 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period January 2 to 8, 2006 MUCH ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES AND BELOW NORMAL RAINFALL: ...Strong Winds and Recording Breaking Temperatures on Sunday... The very mild weather conditions across the Commonwealth and lack of any kind of precipitation have been the story for this short January period. In the past week, most locations reported high temperatures of near 60 degrees or greater on 4 of the past 8 days with several locations reaching near 70's. The high temperature at Bowling Green on Sunday was 69 degrees, breaking the old record of 68 set 99 years ago in 1907. The high temperature at Louisville got to within one degree of the current record. Strong southwest winds also buffeted the region Sunday afternoon. Below is a listing of peak wind gusts from official observing stations: LOUISVILLE INTERNATIONAL...37 MPH LOUISVILLE BOWMAN...38 MPH FRANKFORT...43 MPH LEXINGTON...45 MPH FORT KNOX...43 MPH BOWLING GREEN...43 MPH Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the state which was 13 degrees above from normal. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 52 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 37 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 12 degrees above normal in the West to 14 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the upper 60's to low 70's and extreme low temperatures were in the upper 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.48 inches statewide which was 0.24 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.37 inches, Central 0.36 inches, Bluegrass 0.55 inches and East 0.65 inches, which was -0.35, -0.40, -0.08 and -0.12 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.03 inches at Nashville to a high of 1.07 inches at Jackson. Last week's Palmer Drought Index indicated west and central Kentucky were near normal moisture conditions and Bluegrass and east in Moderate hydrologic drought conditions. So far this year, snowfall has been very limited to non-existant. ---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. --- ---