Weekend storms bring wind and rain to much of W Texas; fair weather ruled across Delta

Over the weekend, thunderstorms moved through West Texas, bringing widespread rain to many cotton-growing areas. Severe weather developed in a few locales, with gusting winds of as many as 70 mph reported. Generally, precipitation accumulations ranged from 0.75’’ to around nearly 4.00’’, and scattered showers are possible today. Cloudy, windy weather prevails, with gusts projected from 20 to 40 mph, and consequently, wind advisories are in effect for many areas. Although the moisture helped settle the dust and briefly eased dry soils, it hampered harvest activities and the transportation of seed cotton supplies from fields to gins. A few processing plants are awaiting the arrival of modules and round bales, while others are still working through supplies on their yards.

Elsewhere in the state, harvesting has drawn to a close, and stalks are being cut and shredded in preparation for winter. Seed cotton supplies are dwindling in central and northern locales, and ginning will likely be completed in the next couple of weeks. In South Texas, producers are making plans for next year. Fertilizers are being applied, and a slow-soaking rain would be welcomed in the upcoming weeks to help enhance soil moisture levels.

Meanwhile, fair weather ruled across the Memphis Territory over the weekend, and sunny, unseasonably warm conditions are expected today, with daytime highs projected in the 70°s (F). A vast majority of the crop is off the stalk and fields have been turned under in preparation for winter rains. Some smaller gins have closed for the season while others are still working through modules and round bales on their yards. Producers in northern parts of the Delta have been pleased with above-average output and good quality.

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