Market Impact Weather

OMAHA (DTN) — A harsh storm system in the northern Plains and Midwest, and continued rain chances in the 10-day time frame for the Southern Plains, are the key weather items for the commodity trade's attention Friday.

MAJOR STORM FOR MIDWEST

The DTN ag weather forecast again calls for a powerful storm system to move into the Midwest through the weekend. This is likely to produce moderate to heavy rain, strong winds, severe thunderstorms and, in west and northwest areas, snow and blizzard conditions. This will further delay spring fieldwork and early corn planting. Western and northern Midwest fieldwork is the most delayed in five years, dating back to 2013. In addition, blizzard conditions or snow and wind in the northwest and far west will affect travel and transport.

NORTHERN PLAINS BLIZZARD

The northern Plains has heavy snow with blizzard conditions in store for western and southern sectors Friday into Saturday, with associated travel and transport disruption along with safety hazards. Snow, wind and cold continue to delay any early spring field work in northern areas and also maintain high stress levels on livestock, notably beef cow herds in the midst of calving season.

RAIN PROSPECTS IN SOUTHERN PLAINS

The Southern Plains region has no significant precipitation expected during the next week in most major wheat areas. Drought conditions along with strong winds will maintain high stress levels on the developing wheat. Cold weekend temperatures will also be stressful to wheat. Crop ratings remain poor in many areas. Forecast models continue to indicate a good chance for beneficial precipitation beyond the seven-day time frame. This prospect will be closely monitored.

DISRUPTION AHEAD IN DELTA

In the Delta, severe storms are expected to bring heavy rains and strong winds, possibly hail and possibly tornadoes to the region late Friday or Friday night into Saturday. Soil moisture is likely adequate to surplus for earlier-planted corn. However, disruptions are likely in the next week due to these periodic heavy rain events.

FAVORABLE BRAZIL CONDITIONS

Central Brazil maintains favorable soil moisture for developing second-crop (safrinha) corn. Additional showers are likely in Mato Grosso.

BENEFICIAL CHINA RAIN

Important winter wheat and rapeseed growing areas of China have seen moderate to heavy rain at the end of this week. This should maintain favorable conditions for development of these crops during the spring period.

Bryce Anderson can be reached at bryce.anderson@dtn.com

Follow Bryce Anderson on Twitter @BAndersonDTN

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