|
|
A blizzard for the record booksOklahoma Chilly, cold weather dominated much of the month of December across Oklahoma according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Oklahoma Field Office, Jan. 4. Although little rainfall was experienced during the first three weeks of December, precipitation came in the form of snow as a powerful blizzard swept across much of the state on the Dec. 24. This holiday blizzard dumped a record-breaking 14 inches of snow on Oklahoma City, bringing travel to a halt. Varying amounts of snow were received across the state but the storm missed the Panhandle completely. High winds led to drifting snow and frigid temperatures slowed melting, as there is still snow and ice on the ground in many areas of the state. Soil moisture conditions are much improved from last December as both topsoil and subsoil were rated mostly in the adequate to short range, with 12 percent and 6 percent rated surplus, respectively. Despite the heavy snowfall of late December, much of the state is still in need of additional moisture to improve conditions. Small grain conditions were rated mostly in the good to fair range. Winter wheat grazed was at 38 percent, seven points ahead of normal. Rye grazed was at 72 percent, 20 points ahead of the five-year average. Oats grazed was at 13 percent, six points ahead of normal. Pasture and range conditions for December were rated mostly in the good to fair range. Snow covered pastures have limited forage availability and forced increased supplemental feeding of livestock. Livestock were rated in mostly good to fair condition. Livestock marketings were average. The wintry conditions have been hard on livestock across the State, as body conditions have dropped and high death loss were reported from the blizzard. Producers have had to increase hay and supplemental feeding as well as break ice due to the frigid temperatures.
Copyright/Privacy
Copyright 1995-2011. High Plains Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Any republishing of these pages, including electronic reproduction of the editorial archives or classified advertising, is strictly prohibited. If you have questions or comments you can reach us at High Plains Journal 1500 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd., P.O. Box 760, Dodge City, KS 67801 or call 1-800-452-7171. Email: webmaster@hpj.com |
|
