By Clint Thompson
Some rainfall is in the forecast for parts of the Southeast. Some is better than none at this point for farmers. As the current drought spreads and intensifies across Alabama, Florida and Georgia, growers are in need of precipitation for their crops.
Pam Knox, University of Georgia Extension Agricultural Climatologist, provides an update on what rainfall is expected in the near future.
“I looked at the seven-day forecast, and it looks like there is predicted over the next week a little over an inch of rain in Southeast Georgia. I think we’re going to see some (rain),” Knox said. “The big question is what’s happening with the tropics. Some folks have been watching down in the Bay of Campeche to see if there’s a little bit of development there. The models are very inconsistent, and I think the latest ones really backed off providing us with a lot of organized activity. It doesn’t mean we won’t get some moisture out of it, and I think that’s where they’re thinking the rain will come from.
“I think what’s going to happen is we’re going to see whatever this thing is in the Gulf of Mexico, maybe not get organized, but bring enough moisture to the area that we’ll see some local storm activity. That will provide some rain that farmers just desperately need.”
Tifton, Georgia, is one of multiple counties in Southeast Georgia that is experiencing moderately dry conditions. According to weather.com, chances of rainfall have improved for the weekend to 52% on Saturday and 54% on Sunday.
Sebring, Florida, is one of various counties in South Florida that is experiencing moderately dry conditions. According to weather.com, there is a 74% chance of rain on Friday.
Abbeville, Alabama is one of multiple counties along the Alabama-Georgia state line that is abnormally dry. According to weather.com, there is 84% chance of rainfall on Sunday.
