Oklahoma storms bring strong winds, timely rain

Rainfall totals in Oklahoma averaged 0.72 of an inch for the period between Feb. 26 and March 5, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The Feb. 28 U.S. Drought Monitor Report, drought conditions were rated 77% abnormally dry to exceptional drought, down 15 points from last year. Additionally, 67% of the state was in the moderate to exceptional drought categories, down 20 points from the previous year. 

Statewide temperatures averaged in the 50s. Storms brought heavy winds that affected much of the state, but they also delivered some timely rains that benefited soil conditions. 

Topsoil moisture conditions were rated adequate to short, and subsoil moisture conditions were rated adequate to very short.

Here’s a look at how crops performed for the period from Feb. 26 through March 5:

Small grains

Winter wheat grazed reached 63%, down three points from the previous year but up nine points from normal. 

Rye grazed reached 40%, down nine points from the previous year and down five points from normal. 

Oats grazed reached 38%, down 11 points from the previous year and one point from normal. 

Pasture and livestock

Pasture and range condition was rated at 66% fair to very poor. Livestock condition was rated at 73% fair to good.