The US drought monitor for Delaware indicates that only the northern end of the state is abnormally dry. Hopefully this indicates good water storage for the spring when small grains begin growing again. Decent soil moisture will also insulate the ground from larger temperature fluctuations, protecting wheat crowns from freezing air temperatures.
The monthly temperature outlook has described Delaware as having an equal chance (EC) of having above or below normal temperatures, which probably means we can expect normal January temperatures. As you can see, parts of the upper Midwest will have colder temperatures, so watch to see if they report any small grains issues.
For precipitation, we are also classified as “EC”, so we should probably expect normal amounts of rain or snowfall, coming into February. If anyone takes soil moisture measurements (when the ground isn’t frozen), or knows of drier conditions in their soils, please send me an email.
US Temperature Outlook (B = below, A = above, EC = equal chance of below/above normal)
US Precipiation Outlook (B = below, A = above, EC = equal chance of below/above normal)
