Cattle Sector Monitors Forecast as Frigid Temperatures Spread Nationwide

Frigid winter weather and rapid temperature swings have cattle markets watching closely for livestock stress, as analysts say fluctuations pose the greatest risk.

NASHVILLE, TENN (RFD-TV) — Frigid cold and winter weather are sweeping through many parts of the United States, with the official start of winter quickly approaching. Analyst Sam Hudson, vice president of Corn Belt Marketing, said the cattle markets will be closely watching fluctuating temperatures this week for signs of livestock stress.

“I would say the temperature fluctuations are probably a bigger danger and threat overall,” he explained. “Sometimes, if it just gets cold and can stay cold and kind of freeze over, sometimes that’s a better situation all the way around. But this is that time of year you get those types of weather systems.”

Hudson said snow has been piling up across fields in his area of Illinois in recent days, but noted that farmers and ranchers in the region need any moisture they can get right now.

Today’s Weather Forecast

Related Stories
The American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers shares an update on commodity prices and farmland trends in Nebraska and South Dakota.
Industry estimates suggest approximately 500 million sterile flies per week may be required to fully eradicate the pest.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation says the agreement could be used to improve market access for American beef and pork producers in Africa.
Kevin Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joins us to discuss evolving insurance needs in the dairy sector and strategies to support dairy producers during National Dairy Month.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Premieres Tue, 10/29/24 – 9 PM ET | 8 PM CT | 7 PM MT | 6 PM PT
In an interview with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander, RanchHER Pilar Martinez talked about the upcoming RanchHER episodes on the way, including one that features her operation, Centennial Ranch in Dillion, Montana.
RanchHER Season 2, Episode 7
Premieres Tue, 10/22/24 – 9 PM ET | 8 PM CT | 7 PM MT | 6 PM PT
Janie joined Suzanne Alexander on RFD-TV’s Market Day Report to discuss the mid-season premiere of RanchHER. She also shared some exciting personal news that has deepened her respect for the powerful female ranchers featured on the show.