Wisconsin farmers should brace for an active March, according to Eric Snodgrass, Principal Atmospheric Scientist for Conduit. While some farmers are rushing to prepare fields early, Snodgrass urges caution. “We have several large systems lined up,” he warned. “If we get five more systems like the one coming, drought concerns may ease until late summer.”
Snodgrass highlighted recent Pacific Ocean activity as a key factor in March’s active weather. “The Pacific finally got going,” he explained. “If it stays active, drought risks should remain low.” He added that La Niña is fading quickly, which may further influence weather patterns.
Globally, Snodgrass is monitoring conditions in South America. “We’ll be watching for early April dryness in key growing areas,” he said. “That could impact crop yields just as we start planting here.”
Despite improved forecasting technology, Snodgrass emphasized the continued need for human expertise. “AI has advanced, but human forecasters are still vital to interpreting data and building better systems,” he noted. “Weather data is a global effort, and even during the Cold War, nations shared crucial information.”
He also praised NOAA’s role in advancing weather forecasting, describing their work as “mission critical” for public safety. “NOAA consistently leads the world in weather prediction,” Snodgrass said. “There’s no competition in terms of quality and accuracy.”
Looking ahead, Snodgrass identified the Gulf of Alaska as an important area to watch. “If we’re going to see extreme heat or drought this summer, the signs will appear there in May or June,” he explained.
