Global Crop Watch

Global Crop Watch Summary, February 28, 2003.  Rainfall continued to benefit summer crops in Brazil, but Argentina turned drier.  Timely rainfall in South Africa, above-normal temperatures in China, mostly quiet weather in Russia and Europe, but heavy rain in Spain.

Drought Continues in Afghanistan.  Seasonal rainfall has been below normal in most areas, stressing the wheat crop.  Rain and snow in February brought some relief.  For more information, go to  Afghanistan:  Heavy Rains Arrive But More Needed

Unusual Snowfall in the Middle East and Afghanistan. In mid-February, snow covered wide areas of Afghanistan and the Middle East, favoring winter crops.

South America - 7 Day Cumulative Precipitation ending February 26, 2003.   This map shows widespread rainfall in Brazil, favoring summer crops.  Recent weather has been hot and dry in Argentina, causing concern about possible crop stress. 

Asia Snow Cover Map - February 26, 2003.  Warm weather in February melted the snow in China's main agricultural areas, leaving winter crops exposed.  

United States Drought Outlook Through May 2003.  Drought conditions are expect to spread into the northern plains and Corn Belt. For more information, go to the NOAA /Climate Prediction Center website.