Michigan farmers are facing continued challenges from unpredictable weather patterns as they work to prepare for the planting season. During the first week of April, a large upper-air ridge brought abnormally warm and dry weather to the state, leading to a burst of growth and development in overwintering crops. However, the warm spell was followed by a large upper air troughing feature that brought much colder weather, snowfall, and freezing temperatures to many parts of the state in mid-April.
While mean temperatures for the 30-day mid-March through mid-April reporting period generally averaged 2-6°F above normal, seasonal base 50°F growing degree day totals surged one to two calendar weeks ahead of normal. This early growth has left overwintering crops vulnerable to cold damage and injury should freezing temperatures occur this spring.
Looking ahead, the seasonal outlook calls for normal to above-normal mean temperatures statewide and above-normal precipitation totals. However, medium-range forecast guidance suggests continued active and impactful weather patterns across the Great Lakes region during late April and early May, with the threat of additional freezing temperatures. Additionally, the Climate Prediction Center has just issued an El Nino watch for the region, with a 62% chance of an El Nino event developing during May-July 2023 and likely continuing into the upcoming winter season.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-wiyadaa
Categories: Michigan, Weather