Climate

Frost-damaged corn — Figure 1. Buggy-whipping, shown hear in the two plants on the left, is when dead leaf tissue traps new leaf tissue, is one symptom of frost-damaged early season corn. (Archive photo by Roger Elmore)

Risk of Freeze Damage in Early-Planted, Emerged Corn April 28, 2017

Early-season freeze damage results in a range of potential yield impacts. Severe damage is often limited to low-lying areas within a field because cool air is heavier than warm air. Early season survival of corn plants is attributed to growing-point protection below the soil surface; however, a hard frost can penetrate the ground and kill plants. Regrowth of corn following freeze damage is often impeded by dead leaf tissue that can entrap new leaves.

Nebraska map showing median dates for 30 F freeze in spring — Figure 1. Median date of last 30°F temperature in spring. (Source: Nebraska State Climate Office)

Nebraska Springs Trending to Warmer and Wetter Conditions April 14, 2017

Nebraska climatologists discuss changing conditions in the state, identifying a trend toward slightly warmer and wetter springs. Three maps show median and early and last freeze dates across the state.

Potential Impact on Crops from Changes in Spring Climate Trends April 7, 2017

A shift toward warmer and wetter springs may create opportunities and also challenges for Nebraska farmers. The change may alter the timing of many agricultural processes, management decisions, pest pressures as well as growing season length. This article outlines potential impacts and their effects in a number of these areas.

Screen capture of Elwynn Taylor on using climate data to manage production risk

UNL & ISU Climatologists on Using Climate Data to Manage Risk March 31, 2017

View presentations from ag climatologists from Nebraska and Iowa on how weather and climate influence crops and how growers can access and use climate trends to make informed risk management decisions.

October 2016 US map with the temperature forecast

Above Normal Temps, Precipitation Forecast for Nebraska September 23, 2016

Above normal temperatures and precipitation are forecast for October for Nebraska. A longer lead outlook indicates the potential for late winter rains that could hamper spring field operations.

Nebraska State Climate Office Launches Websites September 21, 2016

The Nebraska State Climate Office has launched two new sites offering weather data (current and historical) and more reporting locations and for some, hourly updates.

Data Shows Timing of Temperature Extremes in June and July August 18, 2016

This summer's temperature extremes are studied in more detail, with a focus on the number of days where highs exceeded 86 F and a forecast for cooler temperatures the second half of August.

Ag community answers: What do you want from NSCO? July 15, 2016

The newly formed Nebraska State Climate Office has set a goal of producing usable products with the information it collects through its statewide weather network, the Nebraska Mesonet.

To see where it should put its focus first, NSCO conducted a four-week survey of agriculture industry representatives through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension CropWatch.