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 2004. 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. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period December 20 to 26, 2004 Much Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation: "A Winter Storm of Historic proportion," as one Kentucky weather observer stated, dominated last week's weather in Kentucky and the Ohio Valley. An unusually early, and powerful winter storm dump 10 to 20 inches of snow in western and northern sections, one half inch of ice, sleet and snow central and heavy rains and flooding in eastern sections of the Commonwealth. On it's heel's, bitter cold arctic air dropped temperatures to near zero degrees with wind chill temperatures well below zero. Temperatures for the period averaged 24 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 30 in the West to 36 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 14 degrees below normal in the West to 7 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 11 degrees in the West to 19 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 17 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.49 inches statewide which was 0.54 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.35 inches, Central 2.32 inches, Bluegrass 1.53 inches and East 0.77 inches, which was +0.34, +1.29, +0.67 and -0.15 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.16 inches at London to a high of 2.98 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period December 13 to 19, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation After several weeks of above normal precipitation and temperatures across the state, a change occurred this week just before winter officially arrives. A cold front passed through as the week began bringing light snow showers and clouds. Winds also gusted to 30 miles per hour. High pressure settled in on Wednesday clearing the skies as it brought cold air from Canada into our region. South winds returned on Thursday bringing temperatures to near normal levels for this time of year. Highs were in the 40's and 50's Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The warmer temperatures did not last long. A vigorous cold front arrived late Saturday bringing a dusting of snow to many locales, and temperatures fell back into the teens. Temperatures for the period averaged 32 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 40 in the West to 41 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 22 degrees in the West to 25 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature for the week was 54 degrees in Bowling Green. The extreme low temperature was 13 at Covington, Henderson, and Princeton. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.01 inches statewide which was 0.94 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.02 inches and East 0.02 inches, which was 1.00, 1.02, 0.84 and 0.90 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 0.04 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period December 6 to 12, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The week began with a warm front moving north across Kentucky bringing clouds, fog, and rain. On Tuesday, winds from the southwest gusted to 45 miles per hour, and were sustained at 15-20 miles per hour. Warm air from the south moved into the area, and Jackson and London set record highs in the lower 70's. More rain prompted flood watches and warnings to be issued across eastern Kentucky. After a calm day influenced by high pressure on Wednesday, more rain and isolated thunderstorms moved into the area for the end of the week. Temperatures dropped to near normal levels over the weekend as a cold front ushered in cold air from Canada. Average statewide precipitation has been above normal for the past 3 weeks. The past 8 weeks have had at or above normal temperatures statewide. Temperatures for the period averaged 48 degrees across the state which was 10 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 53 in the West to 54 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 41 degrees in the West to 43 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 10 degrees above normal in the West to 17 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 73 in Grayson. The extreme low temperature was 30 in Henderson. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.94 inches statewide which was 0.99 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.16 inches, Central 2.58 inches, Bluegrass 1.65 inches and East 2.37 inches, which was 0.15, 1.56, 0.79 and 1.45 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.12 inches at Princeton to a high of 3.57 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period November 29 to December 5, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation. The week began cloudy and rainy as another low pressure system moved its way across the Ohio River Valley. As December began, skies began to clear as high pressure settled in, but winds were strong from the southwest, gusting to 25+ miles per hour before dying down. Overnight lows dropped below freezing for much of the state, and daytime highs climbed to near normal levels in the upper 40's. The weekend was slightly warmer as highs climbed into to the middle and upper 50's, but clouds and rain moved into western Kentucky late Sunday night. Average rainfall amounts have been above normal for 8 of the past 9 weeks. Average temperatures have been at or above normal for the past 7 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 42 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 51 in the West to 50 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree 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 0 degrees from normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 59 in Campbellsville and Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 23 in Covington and Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.43 inches statewide which was 0.49 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.35 inches, Central 1.29 inches, Bluegrass 1.30 inches and East 1.77 inches, which was 0.35, 0.29, 0.45 and 0.87 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.48 inches at Covington to a high of 2.32 inches at London. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period November 22 to 28, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The pattern of above normal temperatures and precipitation continued into Thanksgiving week. Rain fell on the area Tuesday and early Wednesday as a warm front moved across the state. Strong southerly winds brought humid, unstable air to the region which allowed thunderstorms to develop. Tornado watches were issued Wednesday afternoon, and some severe thunderstorms were reported. Temperatures dropped dramatically after the cold front passed and winds shifted to the northwest. Parts of Kentucky saw their first snow flurries of the year on Thanksgiving day. More cold rain moved across parts of the state on Saturday before drier and clearer conditions returned on Sunday. This is the 6th consecutive week where average temperatures have been at or above normal. Six of the past seven weeks have had above average precipitation amounts. Temperatures for the period averaged 48 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 54 in the West to 55 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 41 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 69 in Bowling Green. The extreme low temperature was 26 in London. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.07 inches statewide which was 0.15 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.17 inches, Central 1.33 inches, Bluegrass 0.96 inches and East 0.80 inches, which was +0.18, +0.37, +0.13 and -0.08 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.64 inches at Covington to a high of 1.69 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period November 15 to 21, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Monday was the only sunny day this past week. Clouds moved in on Tuesday and lingered around all week with peeks of sunshine few and far between. Despite the fog, clouds, and scattered rain showers, the average precipitation across the state was about a quarter of an inch below normal. Temperatures remained mild all week due to the jet stream sitting north of Kentucky. Lows generally were in the lower 50's. Highs were in the 60's for the most part. This is the 5th week where average temperatures have been at or above normal. Four out of the past 5 weeks have had average temperatures more than 6 degrees above normal. The below average precipitation this week breaks a 5 week string of above normal precipitation amounts. Temperatures for the period averaged 53 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 61 in the West to 60 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above 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 10 degrees above normal in the West to 14 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 71 at Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 28 in Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.65 inches statewide which was 0.27 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.59 inches, Central 0.66 inches, Bluegrass 0.81 inches and East 0.53 inches, which was 0.40, 0.30, 0.02 and 0.36 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.19 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 1.29 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., November 15, 2004 MJH 34-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Early week clear skies and light winds helped farmers harvest their corn and soybean crops. Rainfall on Thursday provided moisture that was beneficial for tobacco stripping. By week’s end, farmers were again harvesting fall crops. In addition to harvesting corn and soybeans and stripping tobacco farmers were busy sowing their winter wheat as soil conditions permitted. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, November 12, was 1 percent short, 59 percent adequate and 40 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 4 percent short, 68 percent adequate and 28 percent surplus. Days suitable for field work was 3.9 out of a possible seven days. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, November 14, the burley tobacco was 50 percent stripped. This compared to 47 percent the previous year and 49 percent for the five-year average. Favorable humidity bolstered by a wet Thursday enabled stripping to continue. Most farmers expect to make their production quota. Farmers reported that their stripped tobacco is tending to weigh lighter than previously expected when the crop was housed. Quality has been reported as mostly good. Burley tobacco yield was last estimated as of October 1 at 2,000 pounds. This estimate was carried forward to November 1. Condition of the stripped tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 48 percent good and 18 percent excellent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Corn harvest was virtually complete with 99 percent of the crop harvested on November 14. This compared to 98 percent for the 2003 crop and 99 percent for the five-year average. Corn yield as of November 1 was estimated at 150 bushels, a record high. Farmers reported a good to excellent corn crop with good quality. Soybean harvest was 78 percent complete compared to 89 percent last year at this time and 90 percent for the five-year average. Yields have been good to excellent with good quality. Quality of beans still in the field has started to suffer due to slowed harvesting this fall. The soybean yield as of November 1 was estimated at 42 bushels per acre, 1.5 bushels below the record yield of 2003. OTHER CROPS: Winter wheat seeding was 67 percent complete as of November 14. This compared to 95 percent last year and the five-year average of 91 percent. Farmers have been actively sowing their wheat as the grain harvest and soil conditions permit. The emerged crop was 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 61 percent good and 20 percent excellent. Warm temperatures and good soil moisture have been favorable for germination of the crop. There is some concern that of the emerged crop may be to tall going into winter. Pastures have provided good grazing since rains greened up pastures in mid-October. Condition of pastures were rated as 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 57 percent good and 12 percent excellent. Livestock were reported to be in good to excellent condition going into winter. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period November 8 to 14, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The week began with high pressure in control keeping the skies clear and the winds light. Temperatures also dropped below freezing for several stations across the state prompting frost and freeze advisories. On Wednesday, temperatures warmed into the middle 60's during the day as southerly winds brought warm air into the region. Clouds began to filter in late Wednesday ahead of a storm system in the Central Plains. Clouds and rain lasted into Friday. Most areas saw about an inch of rain. After the cold front passed, temperatures dropped and winds gusted from the north as much as 25 miles per hour. The weekend was dry and cool as high pressure returned to the area. Statewide average precipitation has been above normal for the past 5 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 48 degrees across the state which was near normal. High temperatures averaged from 60 in the West to 58 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 37 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 71 in Glasgow and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 28 in Grayson. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.24 inches statewide which was 0.32 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.21 inches, Central 1.59 inches, Bluegrass 1.22 inches and East 0.95 inches, which was 0.21, 0.62, 0.39 and 0.07 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.55 inches at Princeton and Jackson to a high of 2.15 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., November 8, 2004 SKB 33-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures across the State averaged 57 degrees, 7 degrees above normal for this time of year. Rainfall across the State totaled 2.04 inches which was 1.12 inches above normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.3 out of a possible seven days with most occurring over the weekend due to wet weather for most of the week. As of Friday, November 5, topsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 53 percent adequate, and 45 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent short, 62 percent adequate and 32 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included stripping of tobacco, limited corn and soybean harvesting, and fall seeding of wheat. TOBACCO: Producers reported that the warm, wet weather has continued to bring their tobacco into case and allowed them to strip their tobacco. Some producers need drier weather for the tobacco to finish with good quality. Reports indicate that most producers will make their quota. As of Friday, November 5, housed tobacco condition was 4 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. The burley crop already stripped was 47 percent, well ahead of last year’s 34 percent and the five year average of 38 percent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: The fourth consecutive week of above normal precipitation has continued to delay corn and soybean harvesting. As of Sunday, November 7, corn harvest was 97 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 96 percent but slightly behind the five year average of 98 percent. Soybean harvest was 61 percent complete, behind last year’s 80 percent and behind the five year average of 83 percent. WHEAT: Seeding of the 2005 wheat crop picked up pace this past weekend, but remains well behind last year and the five year average. As of Sunday, November 7, 52 percent of the wheat had been seeded compared to 88 percent for last year and 83 percent for the five year average. As of Friday, November 5, fall wheat condition was reported at 1 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Some producers report the wheat that has been seeded has grown too much and may not make it through the winter. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Some producers report that livestock have tore up pastures due to the wet conditions. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period November 1 to 7, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Monday began wet and cloudy as a warm front moved north across the state. Strong southerly winds brought warm air to the region keeping temperatures well above normal. By Tuesday and Wednesday, the cold front associated with the low pressure system began to slowly push across the state. Areas ahead of the front had warm temperatures and gusty southerly winds. Jackson set a record high of 82 on Tuesday. Behind the front, winds shifted to the northwest, and temperatures were more fall-like. Skies began to clear on Thursday. With the exception of gusty winds on Saturday, the weekend was near perfect with high temperatures some 10 to 15 degrees above normal. This is the 3rd and 4th consecutive weeks of above normal temperatures and precipitation, respectively. Temperatures for the period averaged 57 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 66 in the West to 68 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 48 degrees in the West to 49 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 84 in Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 32 at Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 2.04 inches statewide which was 1.12 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.32 inches, Central 2.07 inches, Bluegrass 2.04 inches and East 1.72 inches, which was 1.32, 1.11, 1.21 and 0.83 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.92 inches at Glasgow to a high of 3.36 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., November 1, 2004 SKB 32-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures across the State averaged 66 degrees, 12 degrees above normal for this time of year. Rainfall across the State totaled 1.0 inches which was 0.34 inches above normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.5 out of a possible seven days with limited fall combining and winter wheat seeding due to wet conditions. As of Friday, October 29, topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 2 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 28 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 9 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 14 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included stripping of tobacco, limited corn and soybean harvesting, and fall seeding of wheat. TOBACCO: Producers reported that the wet weather has continued to bring their tobacco into case and allowed them to strip their tobacco in most areas. As of Friday, October 29, housed tobacco condition was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. The burley crop already stripped was 33 percent, ahead of last year’s 26 percent and the five year average of 29 percent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: The continued wet weather this past week slowed corn and soybean harvesting for a second week. Farmers still report mostly good to excellent corn and soybean yields and quality. As of Sunday, October 31, corn harvested was 95 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 93 percent but slightly behind the five year average of 96 percent. Soybean harvest was 56 percent complete, behind last year’s 66 percent and behind the five year average of 73 percent. WHEAT: The continued rainfall and muddy field conditions have delayed seeding of the 2005 wheat crop. As of Sunday, October 31, 43 percent of the wheat had been seeded, behind 76 percent for last year and 74 percent for the five year average. As of Friday, October 29, fall wheat condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 62 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Producers report that the wheat that has been seeded is germinating well. OTHER CROPS: Range and pasture condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. The continued moisture has allowed many producers to leave their livestock out on pasture longer than usual. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period October 25 to 31, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The week began on a bright note as high pressure was in control. Highs on Monday were in the 70's and 80's with Paducah setting a record high of 83. Clouds, fog, and rain moved in across the state for the majority of the week due to a stalled warm front. By Friday the front moved north of Kentucky. Brisk southwesterly winds brought unseasonably warm air to the region. Lows on Friday morning were in the middle to upper 60's, which were nearly 20 degrees above normal. A cold front swept across the state early Saturday bringing one more batch of showers for the week. Temperatures returned to near normal level by Sunday as more clouds rolled in ahead of the next weather system. This is the third consecutive week of above normal precipitation. It is the second for above normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 66 degrees across the state which was 12 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 76 in the West to 74 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 58 degrees in the West to 57 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 14 degrees above normal in the West to 16 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 83 in Glasgow, Henderson, Paducah, and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 42 in Covington. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.00 inches statewide which was 0.34 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.12 inches, Central 0.87 inches, Bluegrass 1.10 inches and East 0.91 inches, which was 0.43, 0.21, 0.48 and 0.24 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.33 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 2.09 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., October 25, 2004 SKB 31-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures across the State averaged 62 degrees, 6 degrees above normal for this time of year. Rainfall across the State totaled 2.61 inches which was 1.95 inches above normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.1 out of a possible seven days with fall combining and winter wheat seeding limited by wet conditions. As of Friday, October 22, topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 6 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 30 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 12 percent short, 68 percent adequate and 18 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included stripping of tobacco, corn and soybean harvesting, and fall seeding of wheat. TOBACCO: Producers reported that the wet weather brought their tobacco into case and allowed them to strip their tobacco in most areas. As of Friday, October 22, housed tobacco condition was 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. The burley crop already stripped was 23 percent, ahead of last year’s 19 percent and the five year average of 21 percent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: The continued rainfall this past week slowed corn and soybean harvesting. Farmers still report mostly good to excellent corn and soybean yields and quality. As of Sunday, October 24, corn harvested was 92 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 87 percent and on par with the five year average. Soybean harvest was 53 percent complete, slightly ahead of last year’s 52 percent but behind the five year average of 58 percent. WHEAT: The continued wet weather and muddy field conditions has delayed seeding of the 2005 wheat crop. As of Sunday, October 24, 40 percent of the wheat had been seeded, behind 57 percent for last year and 58 percent for the five year average. As of Friday, October 22, fall wheat condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Farmers reported that the local hay supply will be adequate for this winter’s feeding, but that the quality varies greatly and is generally average. Range and pasture condition was reported at 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. The return of moisture has caused pastures to green back up. Farmers reported that livestock are in mostly good condition and are staying out on pasture longer than in recent years. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period October 18 to 24, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Conditions were warm and wet for the third week of October. A strong low pressure system brought rain and thunderstorms to the region on Monday. A stalled front across the state kept conditions humid allowing for widespread dense fog to develop during the overnight hours and low clouds to persist during the day. The clouds kept temperatures warm at night with lows regularly in the upper 50's and lower 60's. After some breaking of the clouds on Friday, another front moved through bringing rain for the beginning of the weekend. High pressure settled in across Kentucky on Sunday allowing for clear skies to prevail. This is the second week of above normal precipitation. Temperatures for the period averaged 62 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 71 in the West to 69 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 56 degrees in the West to 55 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. The extreme high temperature was 80 in Paducah and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 38 in Hardinsburg and Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 2.61 inches statewide which was 1.95 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.10 inches, Central 3.14 inches, Bluegrass 3.39 inches and East 1.80 inches, which was 1.41, 2.48, 2.76 and 1.13 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.22 inches at Berea to a high of 5.94 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., October 18, 2004 JOC 30-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures across the State averaged 55 degrees, 4 degrees below normal for this time of year. Rainfall across the State totaled 1.39 inches which was .73 inches above normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.1 out of a possible seven days. As of Friday, October 15, topsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 18 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 33 percent short, 57 percent adequate and 4 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included corn and soybean harvesting, stripping of tobacco, and fall seeding of wheat. TOBACCO: Producers reported rainfall bringing tobacco into case. This allowed them to resume stripping their tobacco. As of Friday, October 15, housed tobacco condition was 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. The burley crop already stripped was 16 percent, ahead of last year’s 12 percent and the five year average of 15 percent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Rainfall this past week slowed corn and soybean harvesting for the first time. Farmers still report mostly good to excellent corn and soybean yields and quality. Corn harvested was 88 percent, ahead of last year’s 81 percent while behind the five year average of 89 percent. As of Sunday, October 17, 93 percent of the soybean crop was dropping leaves, compared with 99 percent last year and 97 percent for the five year average. Soybean harvest reached 45 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 31 percent and equal to the five year average. The soybean crop condition was 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Farmers reported very little cutting of hay and clipping of pastures with the dry weather prior to last week. Range and pasture condition was reported at 6 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Wheat seeding for the 2005 crop was 25 percent complete, behind 33 percent for last year and the five year average. Farmers are waiting for the ground to dry following recent rains before starting again to seed winter wheat. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period October 11 to 17, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Clouds and rain during the week kept temperatures below normal and precipitation above normal. The first batch of rain was a result of the remnants of tropical storm Matthew. After a brief respite late in the week, clouds and rain returned to the area again on Friday. Winds were breezy with gusts greater than 30 miles per hour. Sunny and cool weather ended the week. This is the third consecutive week where temperatures have been at or below normal. This is the first week since the middle of September that the average precipitation has been above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 55 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 63 in the West to 62 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees below normal in the West to 6 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 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 75 degrees in Henderson, Jackson, Paducah, and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 33 degrees in London. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.40 inches statewide which was 0.74 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.61 inches, Central 1.59 inches, Bluegrass 1.51 inches and East 0.89 inches, which was 0.92, 0.93, 0.88 and 0.22 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.52 inches at Grayson to a high of 2.49 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., October 12, 2004 JOC 29-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures across the State averaged 61 degrees, normal for this time of year. There was no rainfall across the State which was 0.66 inches below normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.5 out of a possible seven days. As of Friday, October 8, topsoil moisture was rated 29 percent very short, 39 percent short, 31 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 21 percent very short, 34 percent short, 43 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Producers report that the lack of rain and resulting low humidity is not bringing tobacco into case for stripping. As of Friday, October 8, housed tobacco condition was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. The burley crop was 58 percent not ready for stripping, ready for stripping was 32 percent, and already stripped was 10 percent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Farmers are still reporting mostly good to excellent yields and quality. The dry weather has some farmers harvesting corn with a moisture content of less than 15 percent. Corn harvested was 83 percent, ahead of last year’s 74 percent and behind the five year average of 84 percent. The soybean crop condition was 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. As of Sunday, October 10, 87 percent of the soybean crop was dropping leaves, compared with 98 percent last year and 91 percent for the 5 year average. Soybean harvest had reached 37 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 22 percent and 31 percent for the five year average. Pod fill may have been limited in some late planted soybeans due to the recent dry weather. OTHER CROPS: Farmers are reporting very little cutting of hay and clipping of pastures with the recent dry weather causing some to go dormant. Range and pasture condition was reported at 12 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Wheat seeding for the 2004 crop was 18 percent complete, ahead of 16 percent for last year and equal to the 5 year average. Some farmers are holding off and hoping for rain before seeding winter wheat. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period October 4 to 10, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation High pressure dominated the majority of the week across the state keeping temperatures cool at night, but mild during the day. A cold front began to approach western Kentucky on Thursday and Friday bringing clouds to the area, but the front stalled keeping the rain to the west of the state. The dry weather continued through the weekend. This is the third consecutive week where average rainfall has been below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 61 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 73 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 48 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 86 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 35 in Henderson. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 0.66 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was 0.69, 0.66, 0.63 and 0.67 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.01 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., October 4, 2004 JOC 28-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The last week of September brought mostly clear skies and slightly below normal temperatures throughout the State. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.4 out of a possible seven days. Temperatures across the State averaged 63 degrees, 1 degree below normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.14 inches statewide which was 0.61 inches below normal. As of Friday, October 1, topsoil moisture was rated 20 percent very short, 32 percent short, 44 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 16 percent very short, 29 percent short, 49 percent adequate and 6 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included corn and soybean harvesting, tobacco cutting and housing, fall seeding of pasture and hay, and fall tillage for wheat. TOBACCO: Producers report tobacco curing as mostly good to excellent throughout the State this week. As of Friday, October 1, housed tobacco condition was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. The burley crop was 95 percent cut, ahead of last year’s 92 percent and one percent below the 5 year average. Burley tobacco not ready for stripping was 69 percent, ready for stripping was 24 percent, and already stripped was 7 percent. Dark tobacco was 96 percent cut, compared to 93 percent last year and 97 percent for the 5 year average. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Farmers are still reporting mostly good to excellent yields and quality. Ninety-five percent of the corn crop was mature, equal to last year and 3 percent behind the 5 year average. Corn harvested was 69 percent, ahead of last year’s 61 percent and behind a five year average of 73 percent. The soybean crop condition was 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 31 percent excellent. As of Sunday, October 3, 77 percent of the soybean crop was dropping leaves, compared with 89 percent last year and 81 percent for the 5 year average. Soybean harvest had reached 22 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 11 percent and 21 percent for the five year average. Eighty percent of the crop was reported safe from frost. OTHER CROPS: Farmers continued to cut hay and clip pastures in some areas of the State this week. Range and pasture condition was reported at 6 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Predominantly dry conditions across the State have halted pasture growth. Wheat seeding for the 2004 crop was 9 percent complete, ahead of 7 percent for last year and behind 11 percent for the 5 year average. Farmers were also busy seeding pastures and preparing harvested corn fields for fall small grains. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period September 27 to October 3, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation It was another dry week across the state. On Tuesday, extreme eastern Kentucky got some light showers as tropical system Jeanne skirted by. The weather was nice and cool through the week. Late Friday and into Saturday afternoon a cold front crossed the state bringing clouds and light rain showers. Temperatures cooled behind the front with lows dropping into the middle 30's in western locations. The weekend ended on a nice note with celar skies and mild temperatures. This is the second consecutive week with below normal precipitation. Temperatures for the period averaged 63 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 76 in the West to 73 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 48 degrees in the West to 54 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 84 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 34 in Henderson. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.14 inches statewide which was 0.61 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.10 inches, Bluegrass 0.17 inches and East 0.27 inches, which was 0.75, 0.67, 0.54 and 0.47 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Henderson and Princeton to a high of 0.45 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., September 27, 2004 JAO 27-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The fourth week of September brought mostly clear skies and slightly above normal temperatures throughout most of the State. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 6.0 out of a possible seven days. Temperatures across the State averaged 68 degrees, 3 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. As of Friday, September 24, topsoil moisture was rated 12 percent very short, 23 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 11 percent very short, 17 percent short, 59 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included tobacco cutting and housing, corn and soybean harvesting, cattle feeding, fall seeding of pasture and hay, and fall tillage for wheat. TOBACCO: Producers report tobacco curing as mostly good to excellent throughout the State this week. Drier weather with morning fog in Western Kentucky has helped curing and also provided good stripping conditions. Blue mold damage is still prevalent but only severe in scattered parts of the State. Housed tobacco is curing well with very slight houseburn. As of Friday, September 24, housed tobacco condition was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. The burley crop was 93 percent cut, well ahead of last year’s 81 percent and 2 percent ahead the 5 year average. Dark tobacco was 92 percent cut, compared to 86 percent last year and equal to the 5 year average. CORN: Corn harvest was in full swing this week with farmers still reporting mostly good to excellent yields and quality. Warmer temperatures continued to contribute to the dry down rate for corn. Only slight water damage and ear rot have been reported. Ninety-two percent of the corn crop was mature, 1 percent behind last year and 4 percent behind the 5 year average. Corn harvesting had reached 56 percent complete, compared to 49 percent last year and 62 percent for the 5 year average. SOYBEANS: Soybean harvest progressed this week with producers reporting mostly good to excellent yields for early planted beans. Rainfall and moisture in the east has improved double crop bean conditions. Only a few producers have reported disease problems. Soybean crop condition was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 34 percent excellent. As of Sunday, September 26, 75 percent of the soybean crop were dropping leaves, compared with 59 percent last year and 65 percent for the 5 year average. Soybean harvest had reached 11 percent complete, ahead of last year’s 4 percent and equal to the five year average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers continued to cut hay and clip pastures in most areas of the State this week. Hay and roughage supplies were reported as excellent due to the ideal curing and baling conditions. Range and pasture condition was reported at 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Farmers were also busy seeding pastures and preparing harvested corn fields for fall small grains. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period September 20 to 26, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Little to no rain fell across the Commonwealth this week. A large ridge of high pressure settled over the east coast keeping skies mostly clear. Temperatures were cooler during the beginning of the week when lows fell into the 40's and highs stayed in the 70's. Temperatures warmed into the middle and upper 80's by midweek. On Friday, moisture streaming north from the Gulf of Mexico and a front approaching from the west triggered some light rain across extreme western Kentucky. The remainder of the weekend was spent under mostly sunny skies and mild temperatures. This is the 5th consecutive week of above normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 68 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 83 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above 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 0 degrees from normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 88 in Covington and Louisville. The extreme low temperature was 46 at Grayson, London, and Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was 0.81, 0.85, 0.77 and 0.78 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 Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., September 20, 2004 JAO 26-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The third week of September brought sunny skies and slightly above normal temperatures throughout most of the State. Mild weather continued during the week in western Kentucky, while the eastern portion received remnants of Hurricane Ivan. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.8 out of a possible seven days. Temperatures across the State averaged 70 degrees, 2 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 1.36 inches statewide which was 0.55 inches above normal. As of Friday, September 17, topsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 19 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 15 percent short, 61 percent adequate and 21 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included tobacco spraying, topping, cutting and housing, corn and soybean harvesting, cattle feeding, and fall seeding of pasture and hay. TOBACCO: Producers report tobacco curing as mostly good to excellent throughout the State this week. Rain in eastern Kentucky has saturated some tobacco fields and delayed housing operations but producers still predict a good quality crop. Dry, warmer weather in Western Kentucky has helped curing and also provided good stripping conditions. Blue mold damage is still prevalent but only severe in scattered parts of the State. Housed tobacco is curing well with very little houseburn. As of Friday, September 17, tobacco set condition was 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. The burley crop was 81 percent cut, well ahead of last year’s 75 percent and only 3 percent behind the 5 year average. Dark tobacco was 72 percent cut, compared to 77 percent last year and 84 percent for the 5 year average. CORN: Early corn harvest progressed this week with farmers still reporting mostly good to excellent yields. Warmer temperatures have factored into the dry down rate for corn. Only slight water damage and ear rot have been reported. As of Friday, September 17, corn condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 42 percent excellent. The corn crop was 98 percent dented, equal to last year and just behind the five year average of 99 percent. Eighty-two percent of the corn crop was mature, 2 percent behind last year and 9 percent behind the 5 year average. Corn harvesting had reached 38 percent complete, compared to 36 percent last year and 45 percent for the 5 year average. Average moisture content of corn being harvested was 20 percent. SOYBEANS: Soybean harvest is just underway with producers reporting mostly good to excellent yields for early planted beans. Rainfall in the east has improved double crop bean conditions. Only a few producers have reported disease problems. Soybean crop condition was 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 34 percent excellent. As of Sunday, September 19, 37 percent of the soybean crop were dropping leaves, compared with 24 percent last year and 47 percent for the 5 year average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers continued to cut hay and clip pastures in most areas of the State this week. Hay crop condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Farmers are reporting their hay crop to be plentiful. Range and pasture condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. Farmers were also busy seeding pastures and preparing harvested corn fields for fall small grains. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period September 13 to 19, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The eastern half of the state was saturated with rain once again as the remnants of Ivan moved north on Thursday and Friday. Rainfall totals were generally in the 2-5 inch range. Western Kentucky saw another dry week. The first half of the week and the weekend were dominated by high pressure. Skies were mostly sunny, winds were light, and highs were in the 80's. Over the weekend temperatures were a bit cooler and fall-like with lows in the upper 40's and highs in the 70's for much of the state. This is the 4th consecutive week with above normal temperatures. This is the 2nd consecutive week for above normal statewide precipitation. Temperatures for the period averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 83 in the West to 78 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 60 degrees in the West to 59 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 89 in Glasgow and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 46 in Bardstown. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.36 inches statewide which was 0.55 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.97 inches, Bluegrass 1.53 inches and East 2.88 inches, which was -0.77, +0.12, +0.75 and +2.10 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Paducah and Henderson to a high of 5.40 inches at London. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., September 13, 2004 JAO 25-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The second week of September brought sunny skies and slightly above normal temperatures throughout most of the State. Mild weather continued during the week in western Kentucky, but hurricane remnants brought rain and clouds to the eastern portion. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.9 out of a possible seven days. Temperatures across the State averaged 71 degrees, 2 degrees above normal. Precipitation for the period totaled 1.12 inches statewide which was 0.31 inches above normal. As of Friday, September 10, topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 16 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 16 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 15 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 9 percent surplus. Main farming activities for the week included tobacco spraying, topping, cutting and housing, corn harvesting, cattle feeding, and fall seeding of pasture and hay. Farmers also reported some early harvesting of soybeans. TOBACCO: Producers report a progressive tobacco harvest in the western part of the State with good to excellent crop condition. Hurricane remnants induced flooding in parts of eastern Kentucky, which put a slight damper on fieldwork. Blue mold damage is still prevalent in scattered parts of the State. Condition of housed tobacco has been reported as mostly fair to good with only moderate to light signs of houseburn. As of Friday, September 10, tobacco set condition was 3 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. The burley crop was 75 percent cut, well ahead of last year’s 60 percent and only 1 percent behind the 5 year average. Dark tobacco was 70 percent cut, compared to 59 percent last year and 73 percent for the 5 year average. CORN: Corn yields are good to excellent with some areas reporting almost thirty percent of the crop harvested. Recent lack of rainfall and warmer temperatures have increased the dry down rate for corn. Although some water damage and ear rot have been reported, most producers do not think it will affect their yields. As of Friday, September 10, corn condition was reported as 4 percent poor, 12 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 39 percent excellent. The corn crop was 95 percent dented, compared to 91 percent last year and the five year average of 97. Seventy-seven percent of the corn crop was mature, 11 percent ahead of last year and 1 percent behind the 5 year average. Corn harvesting had reached 27 percent complete, compared to 20 percent last year and 33 percent for the 5 year average. SOYBEANS: Early soybean harvest has begun in some areas of the State with mostly good to excellent yield indications. However, the western part of the State could use a good rain to keep late growth on track. Only a few producers have reported disease problems. Crop condition was 3 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. Thirty-nine percent of the intended soybean acres have turned yellow, compared to 22 percent last year, and 47 percent for the 5 year average. As of Sunday, September 12, 20 percent of the soybean crop were dropping leaves, compared with 7 percent last year and 26 percent for the 5 year average. OTHER CROPS: Farmers have begun chopping silage and harvesting fall hay in some western areas of the State. Flooding has caused some hay crop damage in eastern Kentucky. Hay crop condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. A few farmers also reported feeding hay to their cattle. Pastures are showing some sign of dormancy in western Kentucky due to a recent lack of rain. Range and pasture condition was reported at 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period September 6 to 12, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The Labor Day weekend concluded with sunny skies and slightly above normal temperatures as highs were in the upper 80's to low 90's. The mild weather continued through the week in western Kentucky, but the remnants of Hurricane Frances brought clouds and rain to the eastern half of the state. Maximum rainfall values were in the 5-8 inch range. The weather improved significantly by the weekend as high pressure settled in bringing clearer skies and warmer temperatures, but there were a few more clouds and isolated showers on Sunday. This is the third consecutive week where temperatures have averaged above normal. Across the state, average precipitation values were above normal due to the large amount of rain in the east, but little to no rain fell in the west of I-65. Temperatures for the period averaged 71 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 83 in the West to 79 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 60 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature this week was 91 degrees in Glasgow and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 52 in Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.12 inches statewide which was 0.31 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.31 inches, Bluegrass 0.95 inches and East 3.20 inches, which was -0.82, -0.54, +0.18 and +2.42 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Henderson, Louisville, and Paducah to a high of 4.25 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., September 7, 2004 KGC 24-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Another week of above average temperatures and occasional showers across Kentucky aided late crop development. Corn and soybean yields are expected to be above average. Crop conditions remained the same, due to the occasional and timely showers. The number of days suitable for fieldwork was 5.2 out of a possible seven days. The main farm activities continued to be cutting and housing tobacco, harvesting corn, cutting and baling hay, and clipping pastures. As of Friday, September 3, topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 17 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 19 percent short, 73 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Quality of the cut tobacco continues to be average. The condition of tobacco in the field was 3 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. Burley tobacco cut through Sunday, September 5, reached 65 percent. The pace was much faster than last year with 41 percent and the 5 year average of 62 percent. Dark tobacco was 58 percent cut, ahead of last year at 40 percent and 57 percent for the average. Twenty-four percent of the early housed tobacco shows some burn. CORN: On Sunday, September 5, the corn crop condition was reported as 4 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Most fields look good to excellent, though there is some concern about stalk strength in a few stands in low-lying areas. Corn dented was at 91 percent, compared with 87 percent a year ago, and 95 percent for the 5 year average. Sixty percent of the crop was considered mature, between last year’s 57 percent, and the 5 year average at 69 percent. Harvesting gained momentum in most areas. One-tenth of the crop has been harvested. In 2003, combining was at 11 percent, with the 5 year average at 21 percent. SOYBEANS: Soybeans continue to benefit from occasional showers, but more is needed for double-cropped fields. A few reports indicated some diseased plants, but most fields are in good shape. Condition was rated 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 34 percent excellent. Ninety-five percent of the soybean crop has set pods, compared with 2003's 90 percent and 92 percent for the 5 year average. One-quarter of the crop had leaves yellowing by Sunday, ahead of the 10 percent for a year ago, but behind the 5 year average of 28 percent. Soybeans shedding leaves reached 10 percent, between the 2 percent for last year and 12 percent for the 5 year average. OTHER CROPS: Pasture quality remained mostly good, with conditions rated as 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 50 percent good and 18 percent excellent. Additional rain will help maintain quality. More hay was cut this week between showers. Conditions were 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period August 30 to September 5, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The work week started out with below normal temperatures and scattered showers in central and eastern sections of the state from Hurricane Charlie which was located over the Carolina's on Monday and Tuesday. High pressure moved east of the Ohio Valley on Wednesday which allowed winds to shift from the south. This set the stage for warmer, humid rain free weather for the remainder of the week. The second week in a row with above normal temperatures after a very cool June, July and August. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 83 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 89 in Paducah and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 56 in Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.31 inches statewide which was 0.50 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.27 inches, Bluegrass 0.56 inches and East 0.41 inches, which was 0.80, 0.58, 0.24 and 0.39 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Paducah and Henderson to a high of 1.54 inches at Covington. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 30, 2004 KGC 23-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above average temperatures and precipitation occurred for most of the State. While some parts were still dry, other places along the Ohio River saw over four inches of rain. The number of days suitable for fieldwork was 4.6 out of a possible seven days. In between showers, farmers mostly cut and housed tobacco, cut hay, shelled and chopped corn, and prepared equipment for increased harvesting next month. Topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 14 percent short, 73 percent adequate and 12 percent surplus on Friday, August 27. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 15 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 9 percent surplus. CORN: The crop continued to mature rapidly, but the rain prevented some farmers from harvesting early corn. Many farmers are expecting good to excellent yields. Conditions for Kentucky’s corn crop on Sunday, August 29, was rated 4 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 37 percent excellent. Eighty-five percent of the corn was dented, ahead of 2003's 82 percent but behind the 5 year average of 88 percent. Over half of the crop was mature at 54 percent compared with last year at 40 percent, and the 5 year average at 50 percent. Five percent of the corn has been harvested, compared to 4 percent a year ago and 10 percent for the average. SOYBEANS: The condition of soybeans improved with the additional rain. As of Sunday, August 29, soybeans were rated 4 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Reports are a little more optimistic about yields this week, provided the weather continues to be favorable. About 87 percent of the soybean crop was setting pods, better than last year at 78 percent and the 5 year average at 86 percent. Fifteen percent of the crop’s leaves were yellowing, compared to 5 percent in 2003 and 16 percent for the 5 year average. Soybeans shedding leaves was at 5 percent, same as the 5 year average and greater than a year ago at 1 percent. TOBACCO: Early yields look average to good. Quality of the housed crop was also good, though the weight was a little light. The condition of tobacco in the field was 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. Fifty-four percent of the burley tobacco had been cut by Sunday, August 29, compared to 32 percent a year ago and 46 percent for the 5 year average. Dark tobacco was 47 percent cut, also ahead of schedule, compared with 26 percent in 2003 and 42 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Some hay was cut this week, but the rain limited what fields were harvested. Conditions were 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Pasture conditions improved slightly with the increased precipitation. Pastures were rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 55 percent good and 19 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period August 23 to 29, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation An upper level trough across the central plains kept Kentucky in a warm humid air mass for much of the week. Southerly winds increased dew point temperatures into the middle 70's keeping humidity values very high. Rain was measured across the state just about every day as weak systems and pop up thundershowers crossed the area. Temperatures increased significantly over the weekend into the upper 80's and lower 90's. A cold front began to push through on Sunday bringing rain showers and cooler drier air. This is the first week since early July that temperatures have averaged above normal, but many areas in eastern Kentucky still have not reached the 90 degree mark this summer. Precipitation values are above normal after two weeks of below normal rainfall. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 67 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. The extreme high temperature was 92 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 54 in Somerset. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.38 inches statewide which was 0.54 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.11 inches, Central 1.42 inches, Bluegrass 1.33 inches and East 0.66 inches, which was +1.32, +0.58, +0.47 and -0.21 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Glasgow to a high of 4.06 inches at Henderson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 23, 2004 KGC 22-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Cool and dry weather prevailed except for a late week shower and a couple of days reaching 90 degrees at mid-week. More rain would benefit the late soybeans and pastures. About 5.7 days were suitable for fieldwork out of a possible seven days. The main farm activities included topping, spraying, cutting and housing tobacco, shelling corn, hay baling, and clipping pastures. Topsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 28 percent short, 61 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus on Friday, August 20. Subsoil moisture was rated 5 percent very short, 25 percent short, 66 percent adequate and 4 percent surplus. TOBACCO: The condition of tobacco in the field as of Sunday, August 22 was 3 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Field tobacco continued to be topped and sprayed, while more tobacco was cut and housed. The occasional morning fog helped housed tobacco to cure. Blue mold and black shank still pose a problem for farmers. By Sunday, 38 percent of the burley tobacco was cut, compared to 19 percent last year and 32 percent for the 5 year average. Thirty-three percent of the dark tobacco was cut, ahead of last year at 14 percent and 29 percent for the average. CORN: A few early fields of corn in the south have been harvested and harvesting should become more prevalent over the next couple of weeks. The condition of Kentucky’s corn crop was 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. Ninety-two percent was in the dough stage or beyond, compared with 87 percent a year ago and 91 percent for the 5 year average. Three-quarters of the crop was dented, compared with 63 percent last year and 71 percent on average. About 23 percent of the crop was mature, compared with 14 percent in 2003 and 19 percent for the 5 year average. SOYBEANS: Double-cropped soybeans could use more rain to help fill pods, but the crop as a whole still looks good. Some localized fields have seen some insect damage, but nothing widespread was reported. The condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 30 percent excellent. As of Sunday, August 22, 93 percent of the soybeans were blooming. Last year blooming was 84 percent, with a 5 year average of 90 percent. Seventy-nine percent of the crop was setting pods, ahead of the 61 percent a year ago and 72 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: More rain would help maintain the quality of the State’s pastures, which were rated at 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 54 percent good and 17 percent excellent. Farmers continue to cut hay this week. Hay conditions were 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period August 16 to 22, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall The week began with more record lows set across the state from Paducah to Jackson. High pressure was the reason as cool Canadian air infiltrated the Ohio Valley keeping skies clear and winds light. Things changed on Wednesday as winds shifted to the south bringing some 90's to the area. The warm weather continued into Thursday as heat indices were in the upper 90's. A large area of rain began to move into western Kentucky late Thursday and lasting throughout most of the day Friday. Rain tapered off early Saturday morning in eastern Kentucky. Skies cleared in time for a beautiful weekend with mild temperatures and partly cloudy skies. This is the 6th straight week with below normal temperatures. This is the second consecutive week with below normal precipitation values. Temperatures for the period averaged 71 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal, but 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 61 degrees in the West to 60 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 93 in Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 48 in Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.70 inches statewide which was 0.14 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.52 inches, Central 0.98 inches, Bluegrass 0.69 inches and East 0.63 inches, which was -0.27, +0.13, -0.17 and -0.24 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.14 inches at London to a high of 1.58 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 16, 2004 KBM 21-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Fall like weather and rain continued to be the story across Kentucky last week. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.4 out of a possible seven days. Farm activities last week included topping, cutting and housing tobacco, hay harvest, and preparing for grain harvest. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 13 was rated 3 percent very short, 10 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 12 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 11 percent short, 79 percent adequate and 9 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Even as cutting and housing have gotten into full swing there remains concern about blue mold and black shank which ranges from severe to minimal. Comments about yield have correspondingly been varied, from poor to good. As of Sunday, August 15, the condition of tobacco in the field was reported as 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Sixty-seven percent of burley tobacco was topped, compared to 55 percent a year ago and the 5 year average of 74 percent. Twenty-two percent of the burley tobacco was cut, compared to 6 percent last year and 16 percent on average. Dark tobacco reported topped was 82 percent, the same as 2003, but behind the 5 year average of 91 percent. Dark tobacco cut was 15 percent, the same as average, but ahead of last year’s 6 percent. CORN: As of Sunday, August 15, 94 percent was in the milk stage or beyond, compared to 87 percent last year and the 5 year average of 93 percent. Seventy-six percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, compared to 67 percent last year and the 5 year average of 79 percent. Fifty-two percent of corn was dented, compared with 39 percent last year and 53 percent on average. Corn producers are expecting good to excellent yields. The crop remains in mostly good to excellent condition, with 4 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, August 15, 77 percent of the soybeans were blooming and 59 percent were setting pods, last year 75 percent were blooming and 46 percent were settingpods. The 5 year averagefor soybeans blooming and setting pods were 82 and 58 percent respectively. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 31 percent excellent. Producers early predictions are for a good to excellent yields. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest continues as weather allows across the State. Plentiful rains have providedplenty of hay, but have hindered some efforts toward cutting and baling. The condition of the hay crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Pasture condition remains fairly steady and was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 55 percent good and 23 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period August 9 to 15, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall The week began with dry weather and warmer temperatures as highs were safely in the 80's. By midweek a cold front began to encroach onto the area bringing rain showers to most of the state and cooler temperatures to all of the state. Record lows were set across Kentucky on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday as temperatures dipped into the upper 40's and lower 50's. Mostly sunny skies and below normal temperatures continued through the weekend allowing plenty of time for outdoor activities. This is the 5th consecutive week for below normal temperatures across Kentucky. The cool summer continues as 7 of the past 8 weeks have also recorded below normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 66 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees below normal and 6 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 78 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 9 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 56 degrees in the West to 57 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. The extreme high temperature was 88 at Paducah and Princeton. The extreme low temperature was 46 at Paducah. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.20 inches statewide which was 0.64 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.16 inches, Bluegrass 0.14 inches and East 0.50 inches, which was 0.77, 0.69, 0.72 and 0.38 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Henderson and Covington to a high of 1.03 inches at London. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 9, 2004 KBM 20-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Ample rain this season has been generally good for corn and soybeans, but the additional moisture and cooler temperatures have kept producers concerned about disease in tobacco. Kentucky has had a month’s worth of below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall. After mid-week showers, some farmers were unable to get into the fields. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.6 out of a possible seven days. Farm activities last week included topping and spraying tobacco, hay harvest and preparing equipment for grain harvest. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, August 6, was rated 3 percent very short, 8 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 10 percent short, 71 percent adequate and 18 percent surplus. TOBACCO: Blue mold pressure appears to be heavier in the Northern and Bluegrass regions. Although most of these reporters stress that all fields are affected to some degree, the impact varies field to field. Black shank is a secondary concern at this time, compared to blue mold. Insect problems remain minimal. Some early tobacco is being cut and housed. As of Sunday, August 8, the condition of tobacco in the field was reported as 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Seventy percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, compared to last year at 63 percent and the 5 year average of 78 percent. Fifty-two percent of burley tobacco was topped, compared to 41 percent a year ago and the 5 year average of 58 percent. Dark tobacco reported topped was 77 percent, compared with 70 percent for 2003 and the 5 year average at 83 percent. CORN: Corn producers are optimistic about yields as the crop remains in mostly good to excellent condition, with 5 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 32 percent excellent. The crop is maturing quickly and as of Sunday, August 8, 45 percent of the corn was dented, significantly ahead of last year’s 26 percent and the 5 year average of 32 percent. Ninety percent was in the milk stage or beyond, which was also ahead of both last year at 74 percent and the 5 year average of 84 percent. Sixtynine percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, compared to 54 percent in 2003 and the 5 year average of 64 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, August 8, 75 percent of the soybeans were blooming, the same as average, and ahead of the 63 percent a year ago. Fifty-seven percent were setting pods, compared to 48 percent for the 5-year average. Last year only 32 percent were setting pods at this time. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 5 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Pastures and hay crops across the State have benefitted from abundant moisture this summer. However, hay baling has been difficult due to rain, and quality has been reduced due to poor curing conditions. The condition of the hay crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 55 percent good and 24 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary: For the Period August 2 to 8, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall: The start of the workweek was warm and dry...and the remainder of the week was very cool with temperatures only reaching the mid to upper 70's. Near-record low temperatures in the low 50's occurred across the state with some eastern Kentucky valley's reporting upper 40's during the latter half of the workweek. Considerable rainfall occurred during the midpoint of the workweek across central and east...with western locations reporting less rainfall. It was the fourth week straight with below normal temperatures for the Commonwealth...and the second week in a row with above normal rainfall. Temperatures for the past week averaged 72 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal and the same for the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 60 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. Rainfall totals for the period totaled 1.16 inches statewide which was 0.32 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.53 inches, Central 1.08 inches, Bluegrass 1.41 inches and East 1.61 inches, which was -0.26, +0.23, +0.55 and +0.74 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.02 inches at Evansville to a high of 4.07 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., August 2, 2004 KBM 19-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Storms ended a very wet, and at times, unseasonably cool July. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.3 out of a possible seven days. Major farm activity included spraying soybeans for weeds, topping and spraying tobacco for insects and suckers, hay baling and general farm maintenance. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 30, was rated 1 percent very short, 15 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 12 percent short, 82 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus. CORN: As of Sunday, August 1, 94 percent of the corn had silked or was silking, ahead of last year’s 84 percent and the 5 year average of 92 percent. Seventy-five percent was in the milk stage or beyond, which was also ahead of both last year at 61 percent and the 5 year average of 73 percent. Forty-six percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, compared to 37 percent last year and the 5 year average of 50 percent. Twenty percent of corn was dented, compared with 13 percent last year and 10 percent on average. Corn remains in mostly good to excellent condition, with 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 41 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, August 1, 63 percent of the soybeans were blooming and 41 percent were setting pods, last year 50 percent were blooming and 16 percent were setting pods. The 5 year average for soybeans blooming and setting pods were 65 and 35 percent respectively. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 3 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Blue mold and black shank continue to be a problem in fields where frequent rains have been received. Reports of the severity of these diseases have been variable ranging from minimal problems to serious impact. There were few reports of insect problems in tobacco. Tobacco height is short in areas where replanting was done. As of Sunday, August 1, the condition of set tobacco was reported as 4 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Sixty-three percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, compared to last year at 47 percent and the 5 year average of 64 percent. Thirty-six percent of burley tobacco was topped, compared to 26 percent a year ago and the 5 year average of 39 percent. Dark tobacco reported topped was 71 percent, compared with 52 percent for 2003 and tied with the 5 year average at 71 percent. OTHER CROPS: Farmers were busy cutting and baling hay and clipping pastures, as weather permitted. The condition of the hay crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 51 percent good and 27 percent excellent. Pastures were doing well in many areas due to abundant moisture and cooler than normal temperatures. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 26 to August 1, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Temperatures for the period averaged 72 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal and 3 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 81 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 61 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 89 degrees at Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 52 at Paducah, Princeton, and Bardstown. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.42 inches statewide which was 0.39 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.77 inches, Central 1.38 inches, Bluegrass 2.33 inches and East 1.20 inches, which was -0.14, +0.31, +1.30 and +0.11 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.43 inches at Henderson to a high of 3.84 inches at Lexington. It comes as no surprise that this week temperatures averaged below normal. The week began very cool as rain and cloudy skies kept temperatures down on Monday. Paduach, Lexington, Bowling Green, and Louisville set record low highs as highs hovered in the upper 60's and lower 70's. On Tuesday and Wednesday record lows were set from Paducah to Jackson as temperatures dropped into the lower 50's. For midweek, high pressure had settled in bringing clear skies, light winds, and cool temperatures. More rain came Friday and Saturday as a storm system pushed across the state. Some severe thunderstorm warnings were issued, but heavy rains and minor flooding were the biggest problems. Conditions dried out on Sunday making way for a beautiful day with more seasonable temperatures in the upper 80's. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., July 26, 2004 TNS 18-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Weather conditions this past week seemed relatively calm compared to the storms of past weeks. Temperatures for the State averaged 75 degrees, which was 2 degrees below normal. Precipitation for the week was 0.33 inches below normal, with the State average at 0.72 inches. Major farming activity this week included cultivating and topping tobacco, harvesting hay, and clipping pastures. There were a few reports that mentioned tobacco being cut. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.0 out of a possible seven days. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 23 was rated 1 percent very short, 15 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 12 percent short, 80 percent adequate and 6 percent surplus. CORN: Many reporters seem to be optimistic about both corn quality and yield. Some reporters have indicated that in the western part of the State corn was beginning to dent. As of Sunday, July 25, ninety-one percent of the corn has silked or is silking, compared to last year’s 73 percent and the 5 year average of 84 percent. Sixty percent was in the milk stage or beyond, which was ahead of last year’s 49 percent and the 5 year average of 57 percent. Twenty-seven percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond, compared to 24 percent last year and the 5 year average of 31 percent. Corn was in fair to excellent condition, with 3 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers were spraying soybeans for weeds during the week. As of Sunday, July 25, 59 percent of the soybeans were blooming and 32 percent were setting pods, last year 30 percent were blooming and 8 percent were setting pods. The 5 year average for soybeans blooming and setting pods were 50 and 24 percent respectively. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 6 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Blue mold concerns are easing in all but the eastern part of the State due to aggressive control spraying and more favorable weather conditions. The only negative reports deal with the lack of height on the plants. Topping and spraying tobacco for sucker control were the primary work activities across the State. As of Sunday, July 25, the condition of set tobacco was reported as 3 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Fifty-two percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, which was ahead of both last year’s 31 percent and the 5 year average of 48 percent. Twenty-three percent of burley tobacco was topped, ahead of last year’s 14 percent but just behind the 5 year average of 24 percent. Dark tobacco was reported 36 percent topped. OTHER CROPS: Hay baling and pasture clipping continued to be major farming activities this past week. The condition of the hay crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Pastures remain in good to excellent condition and were rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 51 percent good and 23 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 19 to 25, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began under a dome of high pressure. On Monday morning, temperatures fell into the upper 50's at Paducah setting a record low. By Tuesday, southerly flow returned to Kentucky bringing warmer temperatures and higher humidity values. A frontal boundary moved through Thursday and Friday bringing numerous showers across the Commonwealth. Saturday was arguably the nicest day of the week as sunny skies prevailed an high temperatures ranged from the upper 70's to the lower 80's, which is below normal for this time of year. However, rain returned again on Sunday. Overcast skies kept high temperatures in the upper 60's across western areas of the state. Our relatively cool summer continued as 4 of the last 5 weeks have averaged below normal temperatures. After 2 weeks of near normal precipitation amounts, the average precipitation values fell below normal again. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 84 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 92 at Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 58 at London, Somerset, and Bardstown. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.72 inches statewide which was 0.33 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.87 inches, Central 0.46 inches, Bluegrass 1.05 inches and East 0.50 inches, which was 0.05, 0.65, 0.01 and 0.63 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 2.01 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 19, 2004 TNS 17-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Severe storms moved across the State on the 13th which resulted in widespread reports of outbuilding damage and power outages. However; precipitation and temperature were near normal for the week. Rainfall for the week averaged 1.14 inches statewide which was 0.09 inches above normal. The major farming activities included topping and cultivating tobacco, spraying for blue mold control, harvesting hay, and clipping pastures. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.1 out of a possible seven days. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 16, was rated 3 percent very short, 11 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 8 percent short, 80 percent adequate and 10 percent surplus. CORN: Corn continues to show good growth across the State. As of Sunday, July 18, 89 percent of the corn had silked or is silking, which was ahead of both last year’s 65 percent and the 5 year average of 76 percent. Forty-four percent of the crop was in milk stage or beyond, compared to last year’s 34 percent and the 5 year average of 37 percent. Twenty percent of the corn has reached the dough stage or beyond. This was ahead of both last year’s and the 5 year average of 15 percent. The emerged corn was in good to excellent condition, with 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers sprayed soybeans for weeds. As of Sunday, July 18, 48 percent of the soybeans were blooming and 18 percent were setting pods. Last year 18 percent were blooming and 3 percent were setting pods. The 5 year average for soybeans blooming and setting pods were 35 and 12 percent respectively. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 4 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 30 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Tobacco reports continue to be mixed. Optimism is tempered by widespread reports of blue mold and black shank. There also appears to be a widespread variability in maturity. There was one report of tobacco being cut and set in the same area. Another concern is that some fields are blooming before putting on much height. The rains brought weed growth and some low lying fields were flooded. As of Sunday, July 18, the condition of set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Thirty-two percent of burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, which was ahead of both last year’s 17 percent and the 5 year average of 29 percent. Fifteen percent of burley tobacco was topped, ahead of both last year’s 4 percent and the 5 year average of 12 percent. Dark tobacco blooming or beyond reached 36 percent, compared with 29 percent for 2003 and 39 percent for the 5 year average. OTHER CROPS: Hay baling and pasture clipping were major activities during the week. Hay crops were reported as 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 56 percent good, 20 percent excellent. Pastures remain in fair to excellent condition and were rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 50 percent good and 24 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 12 to 18, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Precipitation For the second consecutive week, statewide temperature and precipitation averages have been near the climatic averages. A hot and humid airmass was in control of the weather for the beginning of the week. Lows were generally in the 70's, and highs ranged from the upper 80's to the middle 90's. On Tuesday heat indices were recorded in the 105-110 degree range. Severe thunderstorms sped across Kentucky late Tuesday into Wednesday bringing strong winds, lightning, and heavy rains. The second half of the week was under control of a cooler drier high pressure system from Canada. Temperatures dropped nearly 10 degrees with highs ranging in the upper 70's to the middle 80's. Late Friday and during the weekend another weak cold front moved through bringing some scattered showers, but skies were mostly sunny once again Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 84 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 68 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 96 at Paducah. The extreme low temperature was 57 at Covington. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.14 inches statewide which was 0.09 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.96 inches, Central 1.83 inches, Bluegrass 1.48 inches and East 0.30 inches, which was +0.03, +0.73, +0.42 and -0.83 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 2.49 inches at Bardstown and Berea. --- Kentucky Crop Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 12, 2004 TNS 16-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of the Commonwealth was hit by severe storms early in the week. Heavy rains and high winds affected crops across the State. Rainfall for the period was barely above normal, however, storms were intense when they occurred. The majority of field work included finishing the wheat harvest, baling hay and clipping pastures, cultivating tobacco and spraying for blue mold where present. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 9, was rated 2 percent very short, 13 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 15 percent short, 77 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.5 out of a possible seven. CORN: As of Sunday, July 11, eighty percent of the corn has either silked or was silking, well ahead of last year’s 55 percent, and the 5 year average of 66 percent. The corn throughout Kentucky continues to look good, with the condition rated 5 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. Most comments on corn are very optimistic both on condition and potential yield. SOYBEANS: Farmers were busy spraying soy beans and were practically finished with double crop soybean planting. Soybeans blooming was at 26 percent, compared to 7 percent last year, and 22 percent for the 5 year average. The condition of the emerged soybeans continues to look good with 3 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Farmers actively sprayed, side dressed, and topped the tobacco. Black shank and blue mold have become a problem due to the wet weather conditions prevalent this spring. Blue mold has been confirmed as present in fields in more than 40 counties. Tobacco height was 25 percent under 24 inches, 41 percent was between 24 to 36 inches, and 34 percent was over 36 inches. Condition of the set tobacco was rated 4 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. SMALLGRAINS: Wheat harvest was nearly complete with 98 percent harvested by the end of the week, compared with last year’s 97 percent, and the 5 year average of 98 percent. Wheat yields and test weights were lower than initially expected due to the earlier weather delays in harvesting and head scab. OTHER CROPS: Farmers were busy cutting and baling hay and clipping pastures across the State. Reports of quantity have been excellent but the wet weather conditions have affected the overall quality. Hay crops were reported as 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Pastures across the State were in good to excellent condition, with conditions rated as 4 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 5 to 11, 2004. Near Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Precipitation The week began with warm humid weather and several rounds of severe weather. Severe weather watches were issued on Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday a cold front moved through bringing a few isolated rain showers and cooler temperatures. Thursday was probably the nicest day of the week as skies were mostly sunny and high temperatures were in the lower to middle 80's. The somewhat cooler weather did not last long as a warm front moved north across Kentucky bringing back hot and humid conditions. Over the weekend highs were at 90 degrees with little relief other than scattered thunderstorms. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal and 2 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 86 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. The extreme high temperature was 93 at Glasgow. The extreme low temperature was 59 at Bardstown. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.12 inches statewide which was 0.06 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.85 inches, Central 1.52 inches, Bluegrass 1.35 inches and East 0.75 inches, which was -0.08, +0.41, +0.30 and -0.38 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.25 inches at Henderson to a high of 2.86 inches at Bardstown. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., July 6, 2004 JMB 15-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of the Commonwealth remained dry this past week, with only some areas receiving scattered showers. The majority of fieldwork included finishing the wheat harvest, planting double crop soybeans, baling hay, and spraying crops. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, July 2 was rated 1 percent very short, 19 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 2 percent very short, 12 percent short, 79 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.5 out of a possible seven. CORN: As of Sunday, July 4 sixty-five percent of the corn has either silked or was silking, well ahead of last year’s 39 percent, and the 5 year average of 49 percent. The corn throughout Kentucky continues to look good, with the condition rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. The corn is starting to need a good shower in some areas of the State. SOYBEANS: Farmers were busy spraying soybeans, and finishing double crop soybean planting. Soybeans planted reached 97 percent as of Sunday, July 4. Soybeans blooming was at 15 percent, compared t o 4 percent last year, and 14 percent for the 5 year average. The condition of the emerged soybeans continues to look good with 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Farmers actively sprayed, side dressed, and topped the tobacco. Black shank and blue mold have become a problem in some of the central and northeast portions of the State. Tobacco height was 33 percent under 12 inches, 41 percent was between 12 to 24 inches, and 26 percent was over 24 inches. Condition of the set tobacco was rated as 4 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest was nearly complete with 92 percent harvested by the end of the week, compared with last year’s 85 percent, and the average of 92 percent. Wheat yields and test weights were lower than initially expected due to the earlier weather delays in harvesting. OTHER CROPS: Along with the soybeans and tobacco, farmers were also busy cutting and baling hay. Pastures across the State were in good to excellent condition, with conditions rated as 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period June 28 to July 4, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: Scattered showers and thunderstorms threatened the Commonwealth on a daily basis last week with several locations receiving intense rainfall. But, for the most part...it was a dry week for the majority of the state with temperatures in the low 80's for highs on low to mid 60's for low temperatures and muggy dewpoint temperatures in the upper 60's to low 70's. It was the second week straight with below normal temperatures and rainfall. Temperatures for the past averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal and 4 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 83 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below 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 1 degree above normal in the West to near normal in the East. The extreme high temperatures was 91 at Paducah and the extreme low temperature was 55 degrees and London. Rainfall for the week totaled 0.56 inches statewide which was 0.42 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.38 inches, Central 0.69 inches, Bluegrass 0.62 inches and East 0.55 inches, which was 0.52, 0.33, 0.36 and 0.49 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.02 inches at Huntington to a high of 1.78 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 28, 2004 JMB 14-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky had very little rainfall which was a welcomed change compared to the last several weeks. Farmers commented that this was the first time since early May they were able to get out in the fields for most of the week. The majority of field work included harvesting wheat, planting soybeans, and baling and cutting hay. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 25 was rated 4 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 24 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 4 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 20 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.6 out of a possible seven. CORN: The corn throughout Kentucky looks good, as the condition of the emerged corn continued to improve. The corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Fifty-one percent of the corn has tasseled as of Sunday, June 27, and 36 percent of the corn was silking. Farmers finished replanting previously flooded fields. SOYBEANS: The soybeans look good throughout the State. Farmers were busy replanting single crop soybeans. Double crop soybeans were planted after the harvest of wheat fields was completed. Soybeans planted was 87 percent as of Sunday, June 27, compared to 75 percent last year, and 89 percent for the 5 year average. Emerged soybean height was at 10 inches. The condition of the emerged soybeans also improved with 4 percent rated as poor, 22 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. TOBACCO: The majority of the tobacco crop is in good to excellent condition, with a few scattered areas in the State reporting blue mold or black shank problems. Farmers were cultivating the tobacco last week with little tobacco being reset. Tobacco height was 49 percent under 12 inches, 34 percent was between 12 to 24 inches, and 17 percent was over 24 inches. Condition of the set tobacco was rated as 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: After weeks of rain, farmers took advantage of the sunshine to harvest the small grains. Barley harvested reached 97 percent by Sunday, June 27, compared with 95 percent last year, and 97 percent for the average. Wheat harvested was 72 percent by the end of the week, compared with last year’s 55 percent and the average of 77 percent. Wheat yields and test weights may decline with the earlier delays in harvest and reports of head scab. OTHER CROPS: The drier week provided farmers the opportunity to cut and bale their hay. Some of the first cut hay has become over mature. Pastures across the State are in good to excellent condition, with their condition rated as 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting was 87 percent complete as of Sunday, June 27, compared with 96 percent last year, and the average of 94 percent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 21 to 27, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Late May and June have been relatively warm and wet, but this week both temperatures and precipitation averaged below normal across the state. Rain did fall on Tuesday night and most of the day on Friday as cold fronts from the north tracked southeastward, but these showers mainly affected areas in south central and eastern Kentucky. Western and northern parts of the Commonwealth were mostly dry this week. Behind these fronts, cooler and drier air from Canada moved in bringing lower dew points, lower humidity values, and lots of sunshine. Record low temperatures were set Sunday morning in Paducah and Jackson. Temperatures for the period averaged 71 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal and 5 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 82 in the West to 78 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 60 degrees in the West to 61 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 highs were in the middle 80. Extreme lows were in the lower 50's. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.64 inches statewide which was 0.26 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.09 inches, Central 0.38 inches, Bluegrass 0.67 inches and East 1.41 inches, which was -0.77, -0.54, -0.21 and +0.49 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Henderson and Williamstown to a high of 1.96 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 21, 2004 JMB 13-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of Kentucky had four consecutive weeks of above normal rainfall. The State received an average of 1.16 inches of rain which was 0.27 inches above normal. Due to the continued rain, farm work across the State was minimal. When farmers were able to get into their fields, they took the opportunity to set tobacco, plant soybeans, cut and bale hay, or harvest wheat. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June18 was rated 1 percent short, 45 percent adequate, and 54 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 56 percent adequate, and 44 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.4 out of a possible seven. CORN: Rain caused flooding of some corn fields. Some producers are replanting flooded fields. Others may not replant to corn at this late stage in the season but may plant sorghum instead. The condition of the emerged corn improved slightly from last week with 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Double crop soybean planting was once again delayed due to rain across the State. Soybeans planted was 76 percent as of Sunday, June 20, compared to 57 percent last year, and 76 percent for the 5 year average. Emerged soybeans reached 67 percent, compared with 43 percent last year and the 5 year average of 69 percent. Soybean height was at 6 inches. Condition of the emerged soybeans was rated 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Eighty-seven percent of the burley tobacco has been set as of Sunday, June 20, compared with 74 percent last year and 90 percent for the 5 year average. Eighty-five percent of the dark tobacco had been set, compared to 91 percent last year, and the 5 year average of 95 percent. Tobacco height was 70 percent under 12 inches, 24 percent was between 12 to 24 inches, and 6 percent was over 24 inches. Condition of the set tobacco was rated as 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Blue mold as well as a few other diseases have been reported in several central areas of the State. SMALL GRAINS: Barley harvested reached 94 percent completed by Sunday, June 20, compared with 82 percent last year, and 92 percent for the average. Wheat harvest was 32 percent completed by the end of the week, compared with last year’s 19 percent and the average of 43 percent. The wheat harvest continues to be delayed due to the wet weather conditions. Wheat yields and test weights may decline with the delays in harvesting. OTHER CROPS: It has been difficult to cut and bale hay this summer due to the persistent rain. Eighteen percent of the second cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed. Pasture conditions were rated 3 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting was 82 percent as of Sunday, June 20, compared with 80 percent last year and the average of 83 percent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 14 to 20, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Both temperatures and precipitation averaged above normal for the second week in a row. Average precipitation values have been above normal for the past 4 weeks. The majority of the week was spent in a weather pattern that Kentucky has seen all season. Flood watches were issued on Monday and Tuesday as a disturbance from the Gulf of Mexico brought some locally heavy rains to eastern parts of the state. Humid conditions were a problem this week as dew point temperatures were consistently in the lower and middle 70's keeping humidity values above 70%, which are not ideal drying conditions. Afternoon thundershowers did not facilitate drying as just about every part of the state had some rain during the week. The last weekend of spring was much improved as a high pressure from Canada settled over the state. Under sunny skies, highs barely made it to the 80 degree mark, and with dew points dropping into the 50's, conditions were ideal. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees above normal and 0 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 82 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 68 degrees in the West to 68 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the lower 90's. Extreme low temperatures were in the middle 50's. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.16 inches statewide which was 0.27 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.21 inches, Central 1.03 inches, Bluegrass 0.85 inches and East 1.56 inches, which was +0.35, +0.11, -0.02 and +0.64 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.26 inches at Covington to a high of 2.60 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 14, 2004 RPT 12-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most of Kentucky had three consecutive weeks of above normal rainfall. Up to 11 inches was received during the during the last 4 weeks in several areas, over 7 inches above normal. Amounts received this week ranged from none to more than 2 inches with an average of 1.04 inches statewide, 0.15 inches above normal. Temperatures averaged 4 degrees above normal and 8 degrees warmer than the previous week. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 11 was rated 4 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 26 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 4 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 21 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.4 out of a possible seven. During the drier days, wheat and hay harvest, planting soybeans, setting tobacco, and applying fertilizer were the major farm activities. CORN: Corn planting is complete except for several thousand acres which will be replanted if weather conditions permit. As of Sunday, June 13, 97 percent of the planted acreage had emerged, compared with 86 percent a year ago, and the average of 95 percent. Emerged corn remained in fair to excellent condition, with percent 4 very poor, 9 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 43 percent good and 23 percent excellent. Some producers may switch to grain sorghum instead of corn if wet weather prevents planting corn in the next week to 10 days. SOYBEANS: Seeding advanced to 65 percent completed by Sunday, June 13. This compares with 51 percent seeded last year, and the average of 69 percent. About 55 percent of planted acreage had emerged, compared with 34 percent a year ago and the average of 59 percent. Planting of double crop beans is underway as wheat and barley harvest is completed. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 3 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Tobacco setting made good progress between showers. Producers reported 85 percent of burley had been transplanted by Sunday, June 13 compared with 64 percent a year ago and the average of 83 percent. Dark tobacco acreage reached 80 percent set, compared with 84 percent last year and the average of 87 percent. Condition of set tobacco was reported 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Most tobacco plants were small with 68 percent under 12 inches in height, 28 percent from 12-24 inches tall, and 4 percent over 24 inches in height. Blue mold concerns continue in central Kentucky. Wet conditions make it difficult to control weeds and disease. SMALL GRAINS: Barley harvest reached 80 percent complete by Sunday, June 13, compared with 55 percent a year ago and the average of 72 percent. Wheat harvest was 10 percent completed by the end of the week. This compares with 6 percent a year ago and 13 percent for the average. Some early test weights are light. Head scab and lodging will reduce the quality of the crop. As of Friday, June 11, wheat was reported mostly fair to excellent condition with 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 44 percent good and 17 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Getting the first cutting of hay out of the field continues to be difficult. The quality of cut hay is marginal because of the very poor curing conditions and the maturity of the crop. Pastures were in good to excellent condition and were rated 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 56 percent good and 27 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting was 81 percent complete by the end of the week, ahead of both last year and average. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 7 to 13, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Temperatures returned to above normal values once again this week, and average precipitation values were above normal for the third week in a row. High dew point temperatures this week kept conditions warm and muggy. In the morning hours heavy dew and fog were present due to the moist atmospheric conditions. Combined with afternoon temperatures in the middle to upper 80's and lower 90's thunderstorms developed bringing locally heavy rains. Most of the state had rain on Saturday as a frontal boundary passed across Kentucky. Along with heavy rains and thunderstorms, some tornadoes were reported. Sunday was sunnier and drier until the afternoon when more storms developed across the region continuing the weather pattern from earlier in the week. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal and 8 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 84 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 68 degrees in the West to 65 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 90's. Extreme lows were in the upper 50's. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.04 inches statewide which was 0.15 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.25 inches, Central 1.28 inches, Bluegrass 1.22 inches and East 0.43 inches, which was +0.40, +0.36, +0.34 and -0.49 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Somerset to a high of 2.33 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 7, 2004 RPT 11-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal rainfall, especially in Eastern Kentucky continued to hamper agricultural activities. Rainfall amounts during the week ranged from 0.35 to nearly 4 inches with an average of 1.79 inches statewide, .87 inches above normal. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged only 2.4 out of a possible seven. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, June 4 was 47 percent adequate and 53 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 56 percent adequate and 44 percent surplus. Several thousand acres of crops in low lying areas have been flooded out and will need to be replanted. Moisture stress on crops has made them more susceptible to disease and hampered weed control. Much of the hay is over mature and too wet for harvest. Tobacco producers are having trouble maintaining viable transplants in beds and greenhouses in some areas due to blue mold presence. CORN: Corn planting was nearing completion by Sunday, June 6, with 99 percent in the ground. A year ago, 92 percent had been planted with 96 percent for the average. Much of the flooded acreage will be replanted if fields dry out in time. About 95 percent of the planted acreage had emerged, compared with 84 percent a year ago, and the average of 91 percent. Emerged corn remained in fair to excellent condition, with 8 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 41 percent good and 18 percent excellent. Height of the most advanced fields averaged 46 inches statewide, while average height of emerged corn was 27 inches. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 6, 56 percent of the crop had been seeded compared with 38 percent a year ago, and the average of 60 percent. About 45 percent of planted acreage had emerged, compared with last year’s 20 percent and the average of 49. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 47 percent good and 10 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Tobacco setting progress was slow due to wet soils and problems with viable transplants. Producers reported 62 percent of burley had been transplanted by Sunday, June 6, compared with 55 percent a year ago and the average of 73 percent. Dark tobacco acreage reached 65 percent set, compared with 73 percent last year and the average of 74. Blue mold has remained a concern in central Kentucky. Controlling the size of plants in greenhouses is causing problems for many producers along with finding disease free transplants to set. Some resetting will be required in flooded areas, especially in Eastern Kentucky. Condition of set tobacco was reported as 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Most tobacco plants were small with 81 percent under 12 inches in height, 18 percent from 12-24 inches tall, and just 1 percent over 24 inches in height. SMALL GRAINS: Barley harvest reached 60 percent complete by Sunday, June 6, compared with 43 percent a year ago and the average of 37 percent. Wheat harvest is just beginning with 3 percent complete at the end of the week. There is considerable concern that head scab and blight may reduce yield and test weight. As of Friday, June 4, wheat was reported mostly fair to excellent condition with 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 46 percent good and 17 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest continues to be difficult. Poor curing conditions will reduce hay quality, and much of the standing crop is very mature. Pastures were in good to excellent condition and were rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 55 percent good and 27 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting advanced to 80 percent complete during the week, ahead of both last year and average. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 31 to June 6, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Another batch of severe weather came through Kentucky on Tuesday as severe thunderstorms rolled across the state bringing more rain to areas that did not need it. Skies cleared up momentarily during the middle of the week and temperatures cooled down as highs stayed in the 70's and lows dropped into the 50's. Overnight Thursday and during the day on Friday a batch of rain moved across eastern Kentucky prompting a flood watch and several flood warnings to be issued. The weather improved over the weekend as north winds brought cooler drier air to the region. This kept highs in the 70's and skies mostly clear. This is the second consecutive week of above normal rainfall. This is the first week since the beginning of May that temperatures have averaged below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 68 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal and 5 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 80 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees 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 2 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the middle 80's. Extreme lows were in the upper 40's. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.79 inches statewide which was 0.87 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.18 inches, Central 1.64 inches, Bluegrass 1.41 inches and East 2.93 inches, which was 0.29, 0.69, 0.51 and 2.00 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.35 inches at Williamstown to a high of 3.95 inches at Somerset. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., June 1, 2004 RPT 10-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Heavy thunderstorms on Thursday and Sunday caused rivers and streams to rise, damaging crops in low lying areas. Strong winds, including tornadoes, caused damage to buildings and some fall seeded crops. Rainfall amounts during the week ranged from 2.1 to nearly 7 inches with an average of 3.93 inches statewide, nearly 3 times the normal amount. Much of the moisture was torrential rains with the severe weather on Thursday and Sunday. Storms brought all fieldwork to a halt at the end of the week. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.7 out of a possible seven with most of the work done early in the week. Harvesting hay when possible, planting soybeans and replanting corn were major farm activities this week. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, May 28 was rated 1 percent short, 40 percent adequate and 59 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent short, 60 percent adequate and 39 percent surplus. CORN: Corn planting was nearly complete by Sunday, May 30, with 98 percent in the ground. A year ago, 85 percent had been planted with 91 percent for the average. River bottoms are flooding and fields may need to be replanted, some for the second time. About 93 percent of the planted acreage had emerged, compared with 79 percent a year ago, and the average of 85 percent. Emerged corn was in fair to excellent condition, with 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 40 percent good and 23 percent excellent. Height of the most advanced fields averaged 31 inches statewide, while average height of emerged corn was 19 inches. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, May 30, about 45 percent of the crop had been seeded compared with 21 percent a year ago, and the average of 46 percent. About 36 percent of planted acreage had emerged, compared with last years 12 percent and the average of 36 percent. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 4 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. TOBACCO: More than half of the intended burley acreage had been set by May 30. Producers reported 53 percent of the crop had been transplanted compared with 36 percent a year ago and the average of 55 percent. Dark tobacco acreage was 50 percent set, compared with 48 percent last year and the average of 58 percent. Blue mold has become active in central Kentucky, mainly in greenhouses. Condition of set tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. SMALL GRAINS: Barley harvest was just beginning with 7 percent combined by Sunday, May 30. Wheat harvest is expected to begin in southern Kentucky in about two weeks. Wet weather and high wind caused some lodging, along with some concern that head scab may affect yield and test weight. As of Friday, May 28, wheat condition was reported as 7 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 49 percent good and 18 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Hay harvest has been difficult given the wet conditions but some hay was put up early in the week. Hay crops were rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Pastures were in good to excellent condition and were rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 56 percent good and 24 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting advanced to 75 percent complete during the week ahead of both last year and average. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 24 to May 30, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Kentucky had a severe weather outbreak several days this week. All week scattered thunderstorms affected Kentucky due to a stationary front draped across the Ohio River Valley. Significant rainfall amounts were measured across the state. The first round of severe weather came Thursday night as the front sagged south across Kentucky. Numerous tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and the damage caused by them were observed across the state. Skies cleared later on Friday, but flooding and mudslides were still a problem. After a dry Saturday, a cold front approached from the west early Sunday. Again, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, high winds, and flooding ravaged Kentucky. Some locales have received as much as 8 inches of rain in just the past week. This week is the 4th consecutive week with temperatures above normal. This week was the wettest week of the year (so far), with the state averaging 2.87 inches of rain above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal and 2 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 83 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 80's. Extreme lows were in the middle 50's. Rainfall for the period totaled 3.93 inches statewide which was 2.87 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.20 inches, Central 4.46 inches, Bluegrass 5.18 inches and East 3.90 inches, which was 1.09, 3.35, 4.15 and 2.90 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 2.12 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 6.76 inches at Bardstown. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 24, 2004 MLF 9-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Farmers were anxious to get into their fields in between breaks in the wet weather. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees, 7 degrees above normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. Rainfall totaled 0.68 inches statewide, which was 0.38 inches above normal. Main farming activities included putting up hay, finishing corn planting, setting tobacco, and planting soybeans. Topsoil moisture , as of Friday, May 21, was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 72 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture , was rated 2 percent very short, 9 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 11 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.8 out of a possible 7 days. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 21, wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Farmers began reporting grain lodging and damage due to the wet weather. The earliest date farmers expect wheat harvest to begin is June 17th. Harvest of the barley crop is expected to begin around May 29th. TOBACCO: Farmers were setting their burley and dark tobacco as soil conditions permitted. As of Sunday, May 23, burley tobacco set was 38 percent complete, 17 percent ahead of the previous year and 2 percent above average. Dark tobacco was 26 percent set, 3 percent ahead of the previous year but 14 percent behind average. Condition of the set tobacco crop was 2 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 68 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Planting progress continued to be hampered last week by rainfall and wet field conditions. Many areas still need to be replanted. As of Sunday, May 23, farmers had planted 96 percent of their intended corn acreage, 14 percent ahead of last year, and 9 percent above average. Emerged corn reached 86 percent, ahead of the 73 percent last year and the five year average of 79 percent. Average emerged corn height was 11 inches with the most advanced fields 20 inches tall. As of Friday, the corn emerged condition rated 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 48 percent good and 24 percent excellent. Soybeans were 35 percent planted, 21 percent ahead of last year, and equal to the five year average. Emerged soybeans were 28 percent, compared to 6 percent last year and a five year average of 22 percent. OTHER CROPS: Hay was harvested as the weather permitted. There is still a lot left to be cut. Hay crop condition was 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. Grain sorghum was 40 percent planted, compared to 8 percent last year, and the five year average of 36 percent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 17 to 23, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Most of the rain that fell this week occurred at the beginning of the week. Warm humid air and instability in the atmosphere allowed scattered thunderstorms to develop. Rainfall was locally heavy with some flooding occurring. Most of the storms were across the central and eastern Kentucky, leaving western areas dry for the week. By midweek a high pressure system moved in across the southeastern US. This kept most of the rain north of Kentucky. Highs all week were in the 80's, and lows were generally in the upper 60's and lower 70's. Dew point temperatures in the 60's and 70's kept conditions humid for the whole week. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 83 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 67 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 10 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 80's. Extreme lows were in the upper 50's. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.68 inches statewide which was 0.38 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.27 inches, Central 0.67 inches, Bluegrass 0.81 inches and East 0.97 inches, which was 0.83, 0.44, 0.21 and 0.04 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Princeton to a high of 2.14 inches at Quicksand. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 17, 2004 MLF 8-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Scattered thunderstorms across the state limited farming activities in most areas. Temperatures averaged 70 degrees, 5 degrees above normal and 6 degrees warmer than the previous week. Rainfall totaled 1.57 inches statewide, 0.51 inches above normal. Main farm work included cutting hay, planting, and field preparation where possible. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, May 14, was rated 2 percent very short, 14 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture, was rated 1 percent very short, 8 percent short, 79 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.7 out of a possible 7 days. Several farmers reported sightings of the periodical Cicadas which may affect small fruit trees. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, May 14, wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 27 percent excellent. Most farmers are predicting good to excellent yields with minimal disease activity. Barley yellow dwarf has been reported in some areas. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, May 16, burley tobacco set was 19 percent, 9 percent ahead of the previous year, and 2 percent above average. Dark tobacco was 15 percent set, 7 percent ahead of the previous year, and 3 percent behind average. Condition of the set tobacco crop was 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 70 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Most greenhouses still have a good supply of plants. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Planting progress continued. Corn is being replanted in many areas as a result of the cooler April temperatures or flooding. As of Sunday, May16, corn producers have planted 92 percent of their acres, 17 percent ahead of last year, and 12 percent above average. Corn emerged was 80 percent, 14 percent ahead of last year, and 12 percent above the 5 year average. Corn emerged condition rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 51 percent good and 21 percent excellent. Soybeans were 20 percent planted, 10 percent ahead of last year, and 1 percent behind average. Soybeans emerged were 6 percent. OTHER CROPS: Hay cutting was the main farm activity in areas not affected by rain. Due to spring rains, some of the crop is over-mature and farmers are expecting a much lower yield than last year. Hay crop condition was 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Sorghum planted was 11 percent. Strawberry size reported was 44 percent small, 41 percent medium, 15 percent large. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 10 to 16, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation This week was warm, humid, and wet. During the week, high temperatures climbed into the 80's, and low temperatures were mainly at or above 60 degrees. Thunderstorms, some severe, formed during the daytime hours dropping locally heavy rains. This pattern was present all week. More rain came during the weekend as a cold front trekked across Kentucky bringing an inch or more rain to many locales. Four of the past five weeks have brought above normal rainfall amounts to the Bluegrass State. Temperatures for the period averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal and 6 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 61 degrees in the West to 61 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 highs were in the middle 80's. Extreme lows were in the middle 50's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.57 inches statewide which was 0.51 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.93 inches, Central 2.45 inches, Bluegrass 0.87 inches and East 1.05 inches, which was +0.82, +1.34, -0.16 and +0.05 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.22 inches at Berea to a high of 3.09 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 10, 2004 JOC 7-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Cold temperatures early in the week gave way to warm dry weather by weeks end allowing farmers the opportunity to work in their fields. Temperatures averaged 64 degrees, 1 degree above normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. Rainfall totaled 0.16 inches statewide, 0.90 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, May 7 was rated one percent very short, 4 percent short, 79 percent adequate and 16 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture, was rated one percent very short, 6 percent short, 77 percent adequate and 16 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.4 out of a possible 7 days. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat condition was rated one percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Reports indicate that 75 percent of the wheat crop had headed, 2 percent below last year and 5 percent below average. TOBACCO: Transplants measured less than 2 inches in 26 percent of greenhouse and plant beds, 2 to 4 inches in 41 percent and 33 percent were greater than 4 inches. As of Sunday, May 9 burley tobacco set was 5 percent, one percent above the previous year and 2 percent below average. Dark tobacco was 8 percent set, 7 percent above the previous year and 2 percent above the average. Farmers reported 96 percent had adequate tobacco plants for setting, insufficient supplies were anticipated in northern and far eastern counties. CORN AND SOYBEANS: Corn producers have planted 89 percent of their acres, 18 percent above last year and 16 percent above the average. Corn emerged was 68 percent, 9 percent above last year and 11 percent above the average. Corn emerged rated 2 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good and 21 percent excellent. Soybeans were 15 percent planted, 10 percent above last year and only 2 percent above the average. OTHER CROPS: Hay crop condition was one percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated one percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 3 to 9, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The week began with a chill in the air. Frost advisories were issued for Monday and Tuesday mornings as lows in Bluegrass and Eastern Kentucky dipped into the lower 30's. Jackson set record lows on both mornings. During the same period, high temperatures were well below normal with readings only in the 50's and 60's. By Wednesday, a high pressure system had set up across the southeastern US. The high pressure kept skies mostly clear, and it brought some warm air from the south due to southerly winds. From Thursday into Sunday highs were well into the 80's across the state. Temperatures were warm enough for Jackson to set a record high temperature on Sunday. Rainfall was absent this week. There was a batch of showers that moved across western and central Kentucky on Monday, but the remainder of the week was dry. This is the first week since early April that precipitation has averaged below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 64 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 78 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 53 degrees in the West to 49 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 80's. Extreme lows were in the lower 30's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.16 inches statewide which was 0.90 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.40 inches, Central 0.07 inches, Bluegrass 0.01 inches and East 0.17 inches, which was 0.70, 1.04, 1.01 and 0.84 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 1.15 inches at Henderson. --- Kentrucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., May 3, 2004 JOC 6-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week started off with cooler temperatures before warm wet weather settled in for the weekend. Temperatures averaged 59 degrees, 2 degrees below normal and 7 degrees below the previous week’s average. Rainfall totaled 1.37 inches statewide, 0.37 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 30 was rated 1 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 29 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture, was rated 3 percent short, 77 percent adequate, and 20 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.3 out of a possible 7 days. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat condition was rated 2 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 27 percent excellent. Reports indicate that 31 percent of the wheat crop had headed, 7 percent behind last year and 17 percent behind average. TOBACCO: Transplants less than 2 inches at 42 percent, 2 to 4 inches at 38 percent and 20 percent were greater than 4 inches. As of Sunday, May 2 burley tobacco set was 2 percent, the same as last year and the average. Dark tobacco was 2 percent set, 1 percent ahead of last year, and equal to the average. CORN AND SOYBEANS: A few days of dry weather the middle of the week gave some farmers a chance to plant their crops between rain showers. Corn producers have planted 78 percent of their acres, 12 percent ahead of last year and 14 percent above the average. Corn emerged was 50 percent, 5 percent ahead of last year and 11 percent ahead of the average. Corn emerged rated 6 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 51 percent good and 21 percent excellent. Soybeans were 8 percent planted, 5 percent above last year and 2 percent ahead of the average. OTHER CROPS: Hay crop condition was 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 2 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Nitrogen supplies were reported as generally adequate statewide. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 26 to May 2, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The last week of April was wet and cool. A cold front moved east out of the state early on Monday clearing skies but keeping temperatures low due to northwest winds bringing cold air to the region from Canada. Due to the presence of a strong high pressure system, temperatures dropped into the 30's on Wednesday morning prompting frost and freeze warnings for the bluegrass and eastern parts of Kentucky. By Wednesday afternoon, winds shifted to the south bringing warmer air our way keeping highs in the 70's through Saturday. The majority of the rain received this week occurred from Thursday night into Sunday afternoon when another cold front moved through Kentucky, which brought clearer skies and cooler temperatures. This is the third consecutive week in which rainfall amounts have averaged above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 59 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 7 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 71 in the West to 70 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 49 degrees in the West to 48 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 70's. Extreme lows were in the lower 30's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.37 inches statewide which was 0.37 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.27 inches, Central 1.59 inches, Bluegrass 1.41 inches and East 1.24 inches, which was 0.18, 0.55, 0.44 and 0.30 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.83 inches at Henderson to a high of 2.05 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 26, 2004 JOC 5-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal temperatures and precipitation prevailed for the week. Rain most of the week hampered farmers efforts to work in the fields. Temperatures averaged 66 degrees, 7 degrees above normal and 11 degrees above the previous week’s average. Rainfall totaled 2.07 inches statewide, over an inch above normal. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 23 was rated 1 percent veryshort, 4 percent short, 48 percent adequate, and 47 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture, was rated 2 percent very short, 7 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 26 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3 out of a possible 7 days. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, April 23 wheat condition was 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Reports indicate that 8 percent of the wheat crop was headed, 1 percent ahead of last year and 8 percent behind the average. TOBACCO: Plants grown in traditional plant beds were 7 percent, while 93 percent were seeded in greenhouses and float beds. As of Sunday, April 25 transplants measuring less than 2 inches were 62 percent, 2 to 4 inches were 28 percent and 10 percent were greater than 4 inches. CORN AND SOYBEANS: A couple days of dry weather the first of the week allowed some farmers a short window to plant their crops before rain showers started. Corn producers have seeded 72 percent of their acres, 19 percent ahead of last year and 24 percent above the average. Corn emerged was 33 percent, 6 percent ahead of last year and 11 percent above the average. Corn emerged rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 53 percent good and 14 percent excellent. Soybeans were 3 percent planted, compared with 2 percent last year and 2 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS: Pasture condition was rated 2 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. The expected date of the first alfalfa cutting is May 7. The strawberry crop was 6 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 60 percent good and 15 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 19 to 25, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation April showers were commonplace this week across Kentucky. Due to a persistent upper level trough, fronts stalled across the Ohio River Valley allowing rain and thunderstorms to bring some beneficial rain to the Bluegrass State. Flood warnings were issued several times for counties in south central Kentucky. Temperatures were relatively steady during the week since we remained in the warm air south of the stationary front. This is the second consecutive week where rainfall amounts across the state have been above normal. This is the first week since the last week in March where average temperature values have been above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 66 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal and 11 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 74 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 59 degrees in the West to 57 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 11 degrees above normal in the West to 10 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 80's. Extreme lows were in the upper 40's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.07 inches statewide which was 1.08 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 2.26 inches, Central 2.92 inches, Bluegrass 2.02 inches and East 1.07 inches, which was 1.19, 1.92, 1.08 and 0.15 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.68 inches at Jackson to a high of 3.76 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 19, 2004 JAO 4-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain and a late season snowfall limited farmers fieldwork efforts early in the week. However, little to no crop damage was reported throughout the State. Temperatures averaged 55 degrees, 1 degree below normal and 1 degree above the previous week’s average. Precipitationfor the period totaled 1.67 inches statewide, 0.69 above normal. Topsoil moisture, as of Friday, April 16 was rated 7 percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 19 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture, was rated 7 percent short, 77 percent adequate, and 16 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.2 out ofa possible 7 days. Primary farming activities included preparing fields for planting, repairingfences, checking cows and spraying burndown for no-till corn. SMALL GRAINS: As of Friday, April 16 wheat conditionwas 2percent poor, 17 percent fair,50 percent good, and 31 percent excellent. Reports indicated wheat is still in good shape despite two weeks of wet weather. Barley was rated 15 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse seeding was 91 percent complete by Sunday, April 18. This was 2 percent above last year and 1 percent less than the average. Tobacco transplants had emerged in66 percent ofthe seeded beds and flats, 3 percent ahead oflast year, and 3 percent behind the five year average. Condition of transplants was 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 66 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. CORN: Despite colder temperatures, corn planting continued at a rapid pace this past week. Farmers reported that most of their cornhad been planted before the arrival of early week precipitation. Corn producers have seeded 58 percent of their acres, 20 percent ahead of last year and 28 percent above the average. LEGUMES ANDPASTURES: Pasture conditionwas rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Farmers were also busyseeding pastures and hayfieldslast week. The average height of alfalfa as of Friday, April16 was 8 inches. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 12 to 18, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation The weather at the beginning of this week was hardly Springlike. Some significant rainfall finally moved through Kentucky this week. Monday and most of Tuesday were essentially cold rainouts with highs in the 30's and 40's. Tuesday night temperatures dropped allowing for snow to fall in parts of central and western Kentucky, where some locales measured as much as 6 inches of snow. The last of the cold weather this week was seen Thursday morning when a frost advisory was issued for parts of northern and eastern Kentucky as temperatures dropped into the middle 30's. High pressure moved in at the end of the week bringing southerly winds, mostly sunny skies, and high temperatures in the 70's and 80's. This is the first week since March 1-7 that precipitation has averaged above normal for the week. This is the second consecutive week that temperatures have averaged near normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 55 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal and 1 degree warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 68 in the West to 66 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 45 degrees in the West to 43 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 highs were in the middle 80's. Extreme lows were in the lower 30's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.67 inches statewide which was +0.69 inches from normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.52 inches, Central 2.15 inches, Bluegrass 1.65 inches and East 2.35 inches, which was -0.56, +1.15, +0.71 and +1.43 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.28 inches at Henderson to a high of 2.99 inches at Quicksand. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 12, 2004 JAO 3-04 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dry, windy weather prevailed throughout the State the second week of April. Some areas reported soil moisture loss due to the dry conditions. Temperatures averaged 54 degrees, 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.03 inches statewide which was 0.95 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 9 was rated 3 percent very short, 23 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 16 percent short, 75 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.5 out of a possible 7 days. Farmers continued to seed traditional and greenhouse tobacco beds with some transplants beginning to emerge. Other farming activities included fertilizing fields, working livestock, and preparing equipment for corn planting. Windy conditions in most areas of the Commonwealth made spraying difficult. TOBACCO: Plant bed and greenhouse seeding was 88 percent complete by Sunday, April 11. This compared with 80 percent in 2003 and 83 percent for the five year average. Tobacco transplants had emerged on 52 percent of the seeded beds and flats, 9 percent ahead last year, and 4 percent above the average. Farmers reported that transplants are on schedule for mid-May tobacco setting. CORN: Planting was well ahead of schedule with 40 percent of the intended acreage completed as of Sunday, April 11 compared to 18 percent last year and 13 percent for the five year average. Several farmers have reported ahead of schedule corn planting and a few even commented on a record pace due to the nearly ideal conditions. SMALL GRAINS: Reports of damage to winter wheat were minimal, although most would welcome some warmer temperatures. Farmers report average wheat height at 11 inches. As of Friday, April 9 winter wheat condition was 2 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Barley was rated 14 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURES: Fruit trees were reported at 65 percent blooming or in bloom. Farmers report little or no freeze damage to early blooming fruits. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 5 to 11, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Average Precipitation Monday and Tuesday nights brought temperatures below freezing causing freeze warnings to be issued for central and eastern areas of the Commonwealth. As a high pressure system moved to the east, southerly winds returned to Kentucky bringing warmer temperatures. Some isolated showers moved through Wednesday and Thursday, but again it was another dry week for Kentucky as clear skies and warmer temperatures returned for the weekend. The past 5 weeks have had normal or below normal rainfall amounts. Temperatures for the period averaged 54 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 67 in the West to 66 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 3 degrees above 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 2 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 70's. Extreme lows were in the upper 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.03 inches statewide which was 0.95 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.06 inches, Central 0.02 inches, Bluegrass 0.01 inches and East 0.05 inches, which was 1.01, 0.99, 0.93 and 0.87 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.12 inches at Henderson. --- Kentucky Crop Weather Issued 4:00 P.M., April 5, 2004 JAO 2-0 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The first week of April started with a cold front that included scattered rain and some persistent wind. Average temperatures across the State were 2 degrees below normal at 49 degrees. Precipitation for the period totaled 1.01 inches statewide, which was normal. Topsoil moisture as of Friday, April 2 was rated 3 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 19 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent short, 83 percent adequate, and 11 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 2.9 out of a possible 7 days. Farmers were busy top-dressing winter wheat and many have started planting corn. Approximately 47 percent of plowing and field preparation for planting was reported as completed. Farmers also reported fixing fences and general repairs to machinery as current activities. TOBACCO: Traditional plant beds and greenhouse tobacco transplants are ahead of schedule and well on their way towards seeding being completed. Plant bed and greenhouse seeding was 73 percent complete by Sunday, April 4. This was 5 percent ahead last year. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: A relatively mild winter helped keep Kentucky’s winter wheat crop in mostly good to excellent condition. Producers reported 6 percent of the wheat lost due to winter kill. As of Sunday, April 4 winter wheat condition was 1 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 60 percent good, 22 percent excellent. Barley acreage lost to winter kill was reported at 2 percent. Barley was rated 1 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Losses to alfalfa and red clover stands were 3 percent and 4 percent respectively. PASTURE AND LIVESTOCK: Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Only 36 percent of the current roughage requirements were being met from pastures. Some 73 percent of the state’s farms with livestock were still using winter feed. Producers report that 40 percent of the winter hay supply was still on hand. Livestock were reported in good condition with little or no losses due to weather. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period March 29 to April 4, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Average Precipitation Across Kentucky, the end of March and the beginning of April was a bit cool and wet. A cold front moved through on Monday bringing several days of cloudy skies and scattered rain showers as the upper level trough settled over the eastern United States. This trough also allowed for persistent northwest winds, which allowed cooler Canadian air to enter the region. This was evident as high temperatures were in the 40's and 50's for the majority of the week. The rain received was beneficial as rainfall amounts averaged across the state were normal for this time of year. Temperatures for the period averaged 49 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 7 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 59 in the West to 56 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below 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 2 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the middle 70's. Extreme lows were in the lower 30's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.01 inches statewide which was 0.00 inches from normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.61 inches, Central 0.93 inches, Bluegrass 1.28 inches and East 1.20 inches, which was -0.48, -0.09, +0.32 and +0.26 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.50 inches at Mayfield to a high of 1.98 inches at Berea. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period March 22 to 28, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation The coldest day of the week was on Monday as northwest winds brought cold air into the region. As the high pressure moved off to the east, southerly flow returned to Kentucky resulting in a warming trend that lasted the remainder of the week. Highs were in the upper 50's on Tuesday, and by Sunday they were near record highs in the lower 80's. There was not much precipitation to speak of this week. A weak disturbance moved across north central and eastern parts of Kentucky on Saturday bringing some light rain showers. This was the 6th week in the past 7 where precipitation has averaged below normal and temperature has averaged at or above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 56 degrees across the state which was 8 degrees above normal and 9 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 68 in the West to 66 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 9 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 48 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 80's. Extreme lows were in the lower 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.05 inches statewide which was 0.98 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.03 inches, Central 0.05 inches, Bluegrass 0.03 inches and East 0.10 inches, which was 1.09, 1.01, 0.97 and 0.86 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.22 inches at Quicksand. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period March 15 to 21, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Several quick moving systems crossed Kentucky bringing clouds and rain showers. A cold front passage on Tuesday brought cold temperatures as Wednesday morning lows dropped below the freezing mark. On Thursday, more rain affected the state, but temperatures had rebounded into the 60's and 70's during the day. The final cold front moved through Saturday bringing rain and thunderstorms. Temperatures cooled off dramatically on Sunday allowing for scattered snow flurries to fall as high temperatures hovered in the 30's and 40's. Temperatures for the period averaged 47 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal and 6 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 60 in the West to 55 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 39 degrees in the West to 36 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the middle 70's. Extreme lows were in the middle 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.81 inches statewide which was 0.22 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.96 inches, Central 0.86 inches, Bluegrass 0.58 inches and East 0.85 inches, which was 0.16, 0.20, 0.41 and 0.12 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.28 inches at Spindletop to a high of 1.63 inches at Henderson. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period March 8 to 14, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Much colder temperatures this week infiltrated Kentucky. A front moved through on Monday night causing a snow advisory to be issued for northern Kentucky. Winds from the north on Tuesday kept highs in the lower to mid 40's. High pressure was in control through the week. Some light rain showers and gusty winds moved across the state on Thursday. By Friday, temperatures were well below average again as lows dropped into the upper teens in some areas. Temperatures warmed into the 50's for the weekend, but the warmer weather was dampened by light rain early on Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 41 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 14 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 55 in the West to 49 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 33 degrees in the West to 30 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 60's. Extreme lows were in the upper teens. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.06 inches statewide which was 0.97 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.06 inches, Bluegrass 0.07 inches and East 0.06 inches, which was 1.07, 1.00, 0.92 and 0.91 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.02 inches at London to a high of 0.12 inches at Berea. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period March 1 to 7, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation March 2004 came in like a lion. The first week of March can be characterized by unseaonably warm temperatures and rain. The rain started on Monday with the passage of a front. Tuesday brought sunny skies and highs in the middle 60's. Clouds and rain moved in for the remainder of the workweek. Rain on Wednesday night and Thursday was caused by a warm front. As the warm front passed on Thursday, tempertures climbed into the 70's. Friday, a cold front crossed Kentucky. Ahead of the front strong southerly winds caused problems as gusts were in the 40 miles per hour range. Heavy rain and thunderstorms moved through Friday night causing flooding across the state. The weather was dry for most of the weekend, but temperatures were cooler as lows dropped back into the 30's and highs were in the 50's. This marks the third straight week of above normal temperatures. This is the first week since the beginning of February where precipitation amounts have been above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 55 degrees across the state which was 14 degrees above normal and 12 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 63 in the West to 65 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 15 degrees above 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 15 degrees above normal in the West to 17 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 70's. Extreme lows were in the middle 30's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.06 inches statewide which was 1.02 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.94 inches, Central 2.05 inches, Bluegrass 2.03 inches and East 2.21 inches, which was 0.82, 0.99, 1.04 and 1.24 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.25 inches at Covington to a high of 3.02 inches at Louisville. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period February 23 to 29, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Another dry week in the books for Kentucky at the end of February. The majority of precipitation this week was in the eastern part of the state as a low pressure system moved north across the Carolinas on Thursday. Dry mild weather was much more common this week. Temperatures were a bit cooler earlier in the week as highs were in the upper 40's. By Friday, southerly flow brought warm air to Kentucky pushing our highs into the 50's and 60's under clear skies. This is the second consecutive week with above normal temperatures. This is the third straight week where statewide precipitation has averaged less than 0.04 inches. Temperatures for the period averaged 43 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal and 3 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 57 in the West to 54 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 32 degrees in the West to 32 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 highs were in the upper 60's. Extreme lows were in the lower 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.03 inches statewide which was 0.85 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.11 inches, which was 0.93, 0.95, 0.76 and 0.75 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Berea to a high of 0.19 inches at Jackson. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period February 16 to 22, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation High pressure was the dominant force in Kentucky weather this week. Weak low pressure systems moved through on Monday night and Friday night bringing isolated rain showers and clouds. The rest of the week saw sunny skies allowing for highs to climb above normal into the 60's on Thursday and Friday. Strong winds affected the state Friday and Saturday as gusts topped the 30mph mark. By Sunday, the winds had died down and high pressure resumed control. This is the second consecutive week where precipitation has been well below normal. This is the first week since early January that temperatures have been above normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 40 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal and 4 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 53 in the West to 49 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 30 degrees in the West to 30 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 highs were in the upper 60's. Extreme lows were in the upper teens. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.04 inches statewide which was 0.84 inches from normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.06 inches and East 0.10 inches, which was 0.94, 0.95, 0.70 and 0.77 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 0.19 inches at London. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period February 9 to 15, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Conditions were dry across Kentucky this past week. Cold fronts moved across the state on Monday and Thursday, which dropped temperatures, but did not bring any significant precipitation. The dry weather has given the land to dry out a bit after the recent flooding. High pressure was the dominant force in Kentucky weather keeping temperatures cool and the precipitation to the south along the Gulf coast. This is the second consecutive week where temperatures have been near normal. This week was the driest week we have had in 2004. Temperatures for the period averaged 36 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal and 2 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 43 in the West to 45 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees above 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 0 degrees from normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 50's. Extreme lows were in the upper teens. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.03 inches statewide which was 0.85 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.05 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.08 inches, which was 0.90, 0.95, 0.76 and 0.79 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.48 inches at Cumberland Gap. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period February 2 to 8, 2004 Near Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation With temperatures near normal for the week, the precipitation was the more interesting weather factor. Fronts moving through on Monday night and Thursday brought significant rains to the Commonwealth, with the highest totals (more than 4 inches) in southeastern Kentucky. Just about all areas of the state had more than an inch of rain. Flooding was a problem as several flood warnings were issued. Light snow showers moved in Saturday dusting the ground before drier conditions moved in for Sunday. This is the third consecutive week with temperatures at or below normal. This week's precipitation average was the greatest departure above normal so far in 2004. Temperatures for the period averaged 34 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees above normal and 7 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 38 in the West to 41 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees from 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 1 degree above normal in the West to 6 above from normal in the East. Extreme highs were in lower 50's. Extreme lows were in the upper teens. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.25 inches statewide which was 1.37 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.36 inches, Central 2.36 inches, Bluegrass 1.87 inches and East 3.43 inches, which was 0.41, 1.40, 1.11 and 2.56 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.17 inches at Covington to a high of 4.62 inches at London. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 26 to February 1, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Temperatures were very erratic this past week. Most of the snow and ice received last Sunday melted on Monday as highs south of a warm front hit the middle 60's. The warmer weather did not stick around as a cold front crossed Kentucky Tuesday morning keeping Tuesday's highs in the middle 20's. Cold temperatures hung around for the remainder of the week bringing lows on Saturday morning well below zero. Livestock cold stress was also an issue for a couple of days as wind chills fell below -10 degrees. The weekend was relatively nice as skies were mostly sunny and temperatures warmed up a bit to near normal levels by Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 27 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal and one degree cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 36 in the West to 41 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 16 degrees in the West to 20 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the middle 60's. Extreme lows were in the negative teens. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.35 inches statewide which was 0.40 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.26 inches, Central 0.48 inches, Bluegrass 0.37 inches and East 0.28 inches, which was 0.50, 0.31, 0.27 and 0.51 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Mayfield to a high of 1.26 inches at Hardinsburg. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 19 to 25, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Precipitation Despite all the rain, ice, sleet, and snow received over the weekend, Kentucky averaged below normal precipitation for the week. It was a pretty quiet week weatherwise as conditions were generally dry and cool. Some of the lowest temperatures of the winter season were observed Friday morning as lows dipped into the single digits. There was a healthy winter storm across the Commonwealth Saturday night and Sunday bringing between 0.5-1.0" of precipitation. Areas to the south received rain, while areas in central Kentucky faced freezing rain and icing, and areas to the north received snow. Temperatures began to warm up Sunday night allowing for melting to begin. This is the first week of the new year that precipitation has been below normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 28 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal and 9 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 36 in the West to 35 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 21 degrees in the West to 20 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 50's. Extreme lows were in the single digits. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.51 inches statewide which was 0.21 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.60 inches, Central 0.67 inches, Bluegrass 0.36 inches and East 0.42 inches, which was 0.12, 0.10, 0.27 and 0.35 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.27 inches at London to a high of 0.91 inches at Princeton. --- Kentucky Climate Summary: For the Period January 12 to 18, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Rainfall Temperatures at the beginning of the week were above normal as highs reached the 50's for most of the state through Wednesday. A weak front moved through Wednesday night bringing some light showers to eastern parts of Kentucky and colder temperatures to the whole state. There was a slight warm up again on Friday ahead of a storm system that brought rain, mixed precipitation, and snow showers over the weekend. The storm system set up a significant cool down for this coming week. Temperatures for the period averaged 37 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal and 10 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 46 in the West to 46 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 28 degrees in the West to 28 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 mid to upper 50's and extreme low temperatures were in the mid to upper teens. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.79 inches statewide which was 0.07 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.76 inches, Central 0.86 inches, Bluegrass 0.61 inches and East 0.94 inches, which was +0.03, +0.09, -0.01 and +0.17 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.34 inches at Covington to a high of 1.28 inches at London. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period January 5 to 11, 2004 Below Normal Temperatures and Near Normal Precipitation Quite a change this week from the record high temperatures last week. A front crossed Kentucky Sunday night bringing arctic air to much of the United States. Temperatures remained below freezing for the first part of the week. Another system moved through late on Thursday dropping 2-4 inches of snowfall across the eastern third of Kentucky. On Sunday, temperatures rose above normal ahead of another front that will drop the temperatures once again this coming week. Due to the heavy rains last week, there were several flood warnings along the Ohio River from Cincinnati westward to the Mississippi River. The river is not forecasted to crest until late this week, so flooding will be a possibility for low lying ares. Temperatures for the period averaged 27 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal and 23 degrees colder than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 37 in the West to 34 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 22 degrees in the West to 21 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the upper 60's, and extreme lows were in the single digits. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.76 inches statewide which was +0.04 inches from normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.37 inches, Central 0.91 inches, Bluegrass 0.74 inches and East 1.00 inches, which was -0.35, +0.15, +0.11 and +0.23 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.21 inches at Mayfield to a high of 1.43 inches at Quicksand. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period December 29, 2003 to January 4, 2004 Above Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Precipitation Conditions for the end of last year and the start of the new year were warm and wet. Several storm systems crossed Kentucky bringing heavy rainfall amounts causing flood watches to be issued during the week. High temperatures were at record levels at the end of the week. On Sunday, another cold front crossed Kentucky, bringing more rain and colder temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 50 degrees across the state which was 18 degrees above normal and 11 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 59 in the West to 58 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 18 degrees above normal in the West to 19 degrees above 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 16 degrees above normal in the West to 20 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme highs were in the lower 70's, and extreme lows were in the middle 20's. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.87 inches statewide which was 1.05 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.82 inches, Central 1.95 inches, Bluegrass 2.39 inches and East 1.33 inches, which was 0.97, 1.07, 1.67 and 0.50 inches respectively from normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.49 inches at London to a high of 3.20 inches at Covington. ---