After long term September drought rains were observed throughout the whole territory of Ukraine last week.
Thus, heavy rains were seen in Lvov region (Western Ukraine) – on October 4, daily precipitation totaled 54.3 mm –a lmost a monthly norm (95%). In Kharkov region 10 days precipitation amount varied within 5-12 mm, or 38-92% of 10-days norm. In some places of Northern and Southern regions there were 22-29 mm, or 122-180% of the 10-days norm. In Kiev region precipitation amount was 11.4 mm – 95% of the norm for the first 10 days of October.
Long-awaited rains, which were seen on October 3-4 in Vinnitsa region, did not improve soil moisture stocks considerably as well as winter grains condition. As of October 6, the situation in this region was rather alarming with winter plants emergence, which had been sown in optimal terms (October 5-10). In the morning on October 6, soil frosts (-3 C) were observed. The situation is rather rare – moisture deficit is accompanied by warmth deficit. As of October 6, winter crops of early sowing terms (by September 11) are at the stage of the 3rd – 4th leaf formation. Some plants entered tillering stage. Plants sown by September 20, emerged evenly. Plants of later sowing terms (by October 1, and later) did not emerge, but the germination process continues. (UkrAgroConsult/Business World Magazine)
