By Blake Jackson
Farmers in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, might be facing a wet planting season this year. Recent El Nino weather patterns brought above-average rain in December and January, and forecasters predict more could be on the way this spring.
This would be a shift from last year's dry May, the fifth driest on record for the state. While El Nino is expected to weaken by mid-spring, the overall weather pattern may linger, bringing more rain than usual throughout the summer.
Unseasonably warm winter temperatures kept severe cold away from the region. Additionally, a southward shift in the jet stream steered storms with more precipitation into the area. December was the second wettest and fifth warmest on record, with January and February also seeing above-average temperatures.
While recent weeks have been slightly warmer, a return to cooler temperatures is expected in mid-March. There's even a chance of unexpected snowfall before the month ends. However, the overall trend suggests March will likely still finish warmer than usual.
The combination of above-average precipitation and limited sunshine could impact soil temperatures. With rain expected to continue, the ground will likely stay cool and wet, potentially delaying planting for farmers.
While February saw some precipitation, it offered a brief dry window that allowed some farmers to get a head start on plowing. However, with more rain on the horizon, the ground will likely become saturated, making further plowing challenging.
Overall, the forecast suggests a potentially challenging spring for Lancaster County farmers. Wet and cool conditions could slow down planting and impact crop yields.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-tlillico
Categories: Pennsylvania, Weather