Dry times are ahead for the plains as summer fades into fall.
Dry and hot conditions this summer have not set the Southern Plains up for success. The driest parts of Texas also missed out on major rainfall from Hurricane Beryl in July.
The anticipated onset of La Nina is bringing predictions of below-average precipitation.
How long the weather pattern lasts and how intense it is will ultimately determine winter wheat planting, groundwater supply, and winter pasture prospects in the region for the remainder of this year.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor released just this morning shows widespread improvements in parts of the eastern United States after Hurricane Debby moved up the coast.
More than 10 inches of rain fell in the eastern Carolinas while northeast states saw only an inch or two. Meanwhile, in the eastern Midwest and the south, dry weather mostly prevailed worsening drought conditions for some. Warmer-than-normal temperatures continue to plague the West Coast.
However, states like Washington and Wyoming did see some improvements.
West Virginia is joining the ranks of states negatively impacted by drought. All 55 counties now face some for of drought.
At Orr’s Farm and Market in Martinsburg, a lack of precipitation has led to stressed crops and reduced yields. The farm’s general manager says that they are also seeing an unusual ripening schedule for crops like peaches and apples, which they attribute to the summer’s extreme heat.
The good news is that precipitation from Hurricane Debby is expected to bring three to five inches of rain for the eastern panhandle, but more significant rain is needed.
