February’s rainfall totals averaged 1.03 inches throughout Oklahoma, with the southeast district recording the highest precipitation at 1.96 inches and the Panhandle district recording the lowest amount at 0.14 of an inch, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
According to the February 15 U.S. Drought Monitor Report, 98% of the state fell in the abnormally dry to exceptional drought category, up 71 points from the previous year. Additionally, 88% of the state was in the moderate to exceptional drought category, up 77% from the previous year.
Statewide temperatures averaged in the high 30s, with the lowest recording of -12 degrees on February 4 in Kenton and the highest recording of 82 on February 16 in Altus.
Topsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly very short to short.
Here’s a snapshot of how crops performed in February:
- Small grains: Winter wheat grazed reached 61%, and rye grazed reached 45%. Oats grazed reached 45%.
- Pasture and livestock: Pasture and range condition was rated at 58% fair to very poor. Livestock condition was rated at 84% fair to good.