Wintery weather consisting of heavy snow, strong winds, and subzero temperatures stalled harvest for the week ending December 13, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office. Limited harvest progress was made, with only 1.5 days suitable for field work. Many eastern areas received a foot or more of snow. High grain moisture levels continue to be reported with cold air temperatures increasing drying expenses.

Depth of snow at the end of the second week of December averaged seven inches across the state. The
Southeast and South Central Districts reported the largest amount of snow cover at 10 inches while the Southwest and Panhandle averaged less than five inches. Temperatures were 18°  below normal for the week and ranged from highs in the 40s to lows of -24.

Harvest

Ninety-one percent of the state's corn and 94% of the state's sorghum had been harvested.

This release is based on data from FSA county directors, county extension educators, NOAA, and the High Plains Regional Climate Center. See county comments and reports.