Source: Drovers
Meteorologist Eric Snodgrass warns of worsening drought conditions in the upper Midwest, West, and Southwest as spring approaches. With historical patterns indicating that dry falls often lead to dry springs, farmers and livestock producers face concerns over inadequate soil moisture. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports drought conditions affecting significant portions of beef, dairy, and alfalfa hay production areas.
Arctic air patterns have altered jet stream movement, reducing moisture intake and exacerbating dryness. While the East and Southeast experience excess rainfall, the western Corn Belt remains at risk. Meteorologists anticipate a rapid warm-up by late March or early April, potentially worsening soil moisture deficits.
Despite speculation, La Niña is not the primary cause. Instead, a negative phase of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) may drive continued dryness. Snodgrass suggests that an unseasonably late blizzard could help alleviate drought concerns, though farmers may initially resist such a solution.