Weather
A quick blast of cold air is on the way, sending temperatures into the single digits—and even below zero—across the northern Plains by the end of the week. Those ups and downs in temperatures over the next few days could put some stress on livestock. Out West, heavy rain is likely to cause more flooding in the Northwest, while another round of Pacific moisture brings soaking rains to northern California and Oregon. Meanwhile, the eastern half of the country will enjoy a brief warm-up before moderate rain moves through later this week.
Weather News
Frigid winter weather and rapid temperature swings have cattle markets watching closely for livestock stress, as analysts say fluctuations pose the greatest risk.
Hunter Biram, an extension economist with the University of Arkansas, is tracking Mississippi River water levels as grain shippers shift their focus to transportation following the wrap-up of fall harvest.
Winter weather will challenge livestock producers working to rebuild their herds despite harsh conditions.
Mike Newland with the Propane Education & Research Council shares how producers can prepare for winter weather and the benefits of propane.
Using FEMA and USDA data, Trace One researchers estimate average annual U.S. agricultural losses of $3.48 billion, with drought accounting for more than half.
Dr. Mark Svoboda with the National Drought Mitigation Center discusses a new global drought report and resources to help operations increase drought resilience.
Experts estimate the flooding from Hurricane Helene caused more than $1.3 billion in damage to Tennessee agriculture.
The $221 million will help farmers and ranchers cover losses from Hurricane Helene that USDA programs didn’t cover. They’ll focus on infrastructure, markets, timber, and future economic losses.
“We could see oppressive heat index values for a few days.”
Geomagnetic storms have been occurring with increased frequency in space this year, with significant consequences for agriculture.