Generally speaking, it was a mild and dry winter season for the United States. And it has left many areas of the country with dryness as the beginning of the planting season approaches.
USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey details the lack of precipitation this winter season and provides more specifics from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The last time the United States experienced a dryer winter season was the winter of 1980-1981. Rippey says that the dry winter we have experienced this season has led to an expansion of drought coverage. Including for many of the ag production areas of the United States.
Rippey says the mild temperatures resulted in the second warmest winter on record. He adds that many key growing areas of the country are in need of moisture as the planting season draws near.
