Market Perspectives February 21, 2014

U.S. Drought Monitor Weather Forecast:During the period of February 21-24, a drier weather pattern is expected for the Northwest, while significant precipitation is expected across the eastern half of the Nation, particularly in the Midwest, Southeast and New England. Unfortunately, dry weather should persist across the southwestern quarter of the U.S., including California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico and most of Texas. Temperatures will also average above-normal for much of the lower 48 States, except for another blast of Arctic air entering the northern Rockies and Plains and upper Midwest later in the period.

For the ensuing five-day period, the odds favor subnormal readings east of the Rockies and above-normal temperatures in the Southwest. Chances are favorable for above-median precipitation in the West, especially along the California-Oregon border and northern Sierra Nevada. To the east, precipitation is likely along the Gulf Coast States. In contrast, the odds for below median precipitation are forecast for the southern Rockies northeastward into the northern Plains, upper Midwest and Great Lakes region, with slight chances of below-median precipitation in the Northeast. Follow this link to view current U.S. and international weather patterns and the future outlook: Weather and Crop Bulletin.