Tsunami watches are issued for large portions of the Western U.S. coast

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins has issued a message this morning after a magnitude 8.8 earthquake rocked the Bering Sea, raising concerns for farmers and ranchers along the Western U.S. seaboard.

The earthquake struck around 300 miles East of Russia’s coastline last night, around 6:30 PM Eastern. NOAA has been tracking the aftermath, issuing tsunami watches and warnings for Hawaii and Alaska, as well as trading partners like Japan.

Secretary Rollins says USDA is closely watching the developments, making sure all USDA employees and partners are safe. She is urging prayers for all those impacted.

RFD-TV Meteorologist Kirk Harnack gives the latest news for farmers and ranchers along the coast, as well as what he has heard from colleagues.

Related Stories
Scouts say yields are landing close to USDA projections as they monitor drought pressure and abandonment concerns.
The Echols family of Downsville is racing against the weather during hay season, harvesting ryegrass silage before incoming rain moves into the area.
Mike Schulte with the Oklahoma Wheat Commission joins us to discuss drought stress in the Great Plains and the current outlook for Oklahoma’s winter wheat crop.
USDA Chief Economist Justin Benavidez says the cattle industry may be nearing a turning point that could gradually reshape supply, prices, and profitability in the years ahead.
The behind-the-scenes role helps guide jump crews as they protect rural communities.
HTS Commodities broker Lewis Williamson joins us to break down the latest USDA Crop Progress Report and how weather and global supply chain issues could influence planting conditions moving forward.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Food prices increased in December, but not as much as expected, according to the latest Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
The Farm Bureau’s honor highlights the important role farm dogs play on operations across the country, serving as dependable workers and trusted companions.
Logistics capacity remains available, but winter volatility favors flexible delivery and marketing plans. NGFA President Mike Seyfert provides insight into grain transportation trends, trade policy, and priorities for the year ahead.
Rising adoption of GLP-1 drugs may gradually reshape food demand, with potential downstream effects on protein markets and consumer purchasing patterns.