Should we knit up some ear warmers for the calves, or should we have our plows geared up for some serious snow removal? Winter will be here on December 21, 2023, and I’ve taken a look at the predictions for temperature and precipitation from two sources: the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Farmer’s Almanac.
Both sources give valuable information to farmers, ranchers, or anyone in agriculture for planning and preparation purposes. NOAA predicts that the El Nino will stick around, bringing warm winds off the Pacific Ocean. As a result, the northern layer of the US will see warmer than usual temperatures through February. The tough thing for the states that we service, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota, is that the prediction is below-average precipitation. The southern part of the country is just the opposite, with a wetter-than-normal season predicted. So, for the ag producers, pray for snow and rain!
The other side of the country, towards New England, is expected to see lots of snow and warmer temperatures. The Pacific Northwest will have warmer weather but dry. One astonishing statistic I read was that this was the 9th warmest August the continental United States has on record! Furthermore, temperatures recorded through August of 2023 have been the second-warmest recorded year globally.
How many of you still turn to the Farmer’s Almanac? The Almanac’s predictions followed the ones made by the NOAA, except it predicts that areas usually receiving snowfall will have colder temps. For the most part, the Farmer’s Almanac predicts cold and snow, especially in the Northwest and Midwest. So, keep your shovels handy!
