A series of intense storms originating from Chugwater and Hawk Springs, Wyoming, brought destructive tornados and large hail to Nebraska's Panhandle region on June 23. The National Weather Service reported a cyclic tornadic thunderstorm, resulting in periodic tornado touchdowns throughout the area. The secondary storm unleashed hail ranging from pea to softball size, causing significant damage to various crops and structures.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center suffered substantial hail damage, impacting vehicles, the greenhouse, and numerous crop plots. Notably affected was a winter pea research study led by Dipak Santra, an alternative crop breeding specialist. The once-promising winter pea fields, in full bloom with developing pods, were decimated by the hail, resulting in a complete loss. Growers are urged to monitor their pea crops for potential bacterial blight, as the damaged plants are more susceptible to disease.
Aside from crop damage, farmers now face additional challenges, including increased weed germination due to the loss of vegetation cover. Nevin Lawrence, an integrated weed management specialist, advises farmers to consider applying soil residual herbicides to prevent weed growth. Replanting may also be necessary in some cases, but growers must be mindful of replanting restrictions based on their specific crop transitions.
Affected producers are encouraged to maintain close communication with their crop insurance agents for guidance on managing storm-related damages. Crop inspections by adjustors will provide clearer options for field management moving forward.
The effects of the severe storms serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of agricultural livelihoods and the need for resilient farming practices in the face of unpredictable weather events.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-xander-d
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Weather