Ukraine. Development of winter crops lags more than a week behind usual

Dry weather with significant day-night temperature swings dominated the country on October 21-29. Effective heat for growing winter crops accumulated much slower than in 2020. The development of winter crops lags more than a week behind usual. Farmers continue sowing winter grains and harvesting grains and pulses. Winter crops are rated fair to good, UkrAgroConsult reports.

No precipitation was seen during the week. Only Kherson region received little rain (0.1-3 mm), but it did not influence topsoil moisture content. Precipitation on October 21-29 totaled at most 40-60% of normal.

Due to precipitation deficits, soil moisture supply remained poor. Soil moisture shortages slowed growth and development of plants.

Weather forecast for November 3-7:

Precipitation (5-10 mm) is expected in most of the country. The northern, eastern and central regions will likely receive up to 15 mm.

Air temperatures will be +12 … +14°C in the daytime, +7 … +9°C at night in the West; +14 … +16°C in the daytime, +9… +11°C at night in the North; +13 … +15°C in the daytime, +7 … +9°C at night in the East; +15 … +17°C in the daytime, +9… +11°C at night in Central Ukraine; +16 … +18°C in the daytime, +8 … +10°C at night in the South.