http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Extreme heat occurred in Far West Texas with daily temperatures soaring above 95 degrees and one day exceeding 100 degrees. Temperatures were significantly higher than the seasonal average of 86 degrees. With rainfall becoming increasingly critical, widespread soaking rain was needed to improve planting conditions and to support crops and grazing lands. Persistent high winds accelerated the soil moisture loss from previous rains. Winter wheat has largely been bailed for hay or plowed under. While a few growers began planting cotton on well-irrigated fields with sufficient moisture, many were waiting for rain or relying on irrigation to prepare their fields. Dryland planting remained unlikely without substantial rainfall, and sustaining crops through the summer would require multiple heavy rains. Corn and sorghum responded well to the heat, with no reported insect pressure. Melons were beginning to vine out, though bird activity caused some damage. Pasture and grazing and conditions continued to decline, and producers continued feeding livestock. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), May 20, 2025 Many intense storms brought sporadic rain, strong winds and hail to Far West Texas. Fortunately, no major damage was reported. Conditions were cooler with higher humidity. High winds dried out topsoil. Subsoil moisture levels remained alarmingly low, with little to be found 6-12 inches below the surface. Farmers continued planting hay grazer. Cotton planting was still on hold, but preparations continued as farmers anticipated starting within the next few weeks. Drip irrigation systems were turned on for upcoming cotton planting. Most corn had emerged, though some fields suffered hail damage, and growers were assessing whether the crop was salvageable. Sorghum emerged, but cooler temperatures hampered its progress. Watermelons were faring better but were progressing at a sluggish pace. Pastures, especially those left ungrazed for multiple years, began to green up. Livestock conditions remained fair overall, though the fluctuating weather added some challenges. Feeding efforts for livestock and wildlife continued amid the shifting conditions. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), May 6, 2025