Weather
Storms moving in from the western U.S. will bring rain and snow to many areas. The first system is crossing the central Plains now, with heavy rain and some light snow expected in parts of the Corn Belt. The Great Lakes could see heavier precipitation by Friday. Another cold front will move through the lower Mississippi Valley Friday night and slow near the Great Lakes over the weekend. Severe storms are possible along the Gulf Coast and southern Appalachians Friday into early Saturday, with 2 to 4 inches of rain in some spots. Most of the country will turn cooler than normal next week.
Weather News
The New Year is here, but in Oregon, some ranchers and livestock producers are still trying to recover from record wildfires back in 2024.
Weather-driven transportation disruptions can tighten logistics, affect basis levels, and delay grain movement during winter months.
Frigid winter weather and rapid temperature swings have cattle markets watching closely for livestock stress, as analysts say fluctuations pose the greatest risk.
Hunter Biram, an extension economist with the University of Arkansas, is tracking Mississippi River water levels as grain shippers shift their focus to transportation following the wrap-up of fall harvest.
Winter weather will challenge livestock producers working to rebuild their herds despite harsh conditions.
Mike Newland with the Propane Education & Research Council shares how producers can prepare for winter weather and the benefits of propane.
Using FEMA and USDA data, Trace One researchers estimate average annual U.S. agricultural losses of $3.48 billion, with drought accounting for more than half.
Dr. Mark Svoboda with the National Drought Mitigation Center discusses a new global drought report and resources to help operations increase drought resilience.
Experts estimate the flooding from Hurricane Helene caused more than $1.3 billion in damage to Tennessee agriculture.
The $221 million will help farmers and ranchers cover losses from Hurricane Helene that USDA programs didn’t cover. They’ll focus on infrastructure, markets, timber, and future economic losses.
