FORECAST SUMMARY: Wednesday, March 10: *** Welcome to the 2004 Blue Mold Forecasts !!! *** We begin with four sources: one in western Cuba, one on each coast of Mexico to represent any active blue mold in those regions, and one to represent any possible blue mold on the wild tobacco of southern Texas. Our thanks to Dr. Jean Ristaino, who has confirmed the presence of blue mold in Cuba. The infections were observed near San Antonio de los Banos, south of Havana. With blue mold likely active elsewhere, we will continue to begin trajectories from Pinar del Rio, in the growing regions in the western sections of Cuba.
Wednesday and Thursday: All known sources are Low Threats, with Low Risk to production areas of the U.S. Trajectories from Cuba do not approach the U.S. mainland. Trajectories from the other possible sources are also non-threatening the next two days. Conditions may be favorable for localized disease development along Mexico's east coast. TK
Areas at Strongly Moderate or HIGH Risk during the past week: None
Current Sources:
Previous Sources:
None
Local Weather in North Carolina is available from the WRAL-TV5 Weather Center, which also has links to other weather sites.
***** NOTE: These forecasts/outlooks only apply to disease development from airborne transport of spores!!! We do not have the capability to ascertain blue mold development by other means, such as transplanting of infected seedlings, nor will we attempt to do so. Please consult the Extension Service personnel in your area if you have concerns about these matters! *****
This service is provided by the North Carolina State University departments of Plant Pathology and Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences.