FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, March 8: *** 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.
Monday and Tuesday: All known sources are Low Threats. There is Low Risk to production areas of the U.S. Trajectories from Cuba move to the south Monday and Tuesday. Conditions are unfavorable for localized disease development in southern Texas. Trajectories from this region are non-threatening also. Dry, sunny weather is expected around Mexico's west coast production region. Some clouds and a chance of rain will be present near the production areas along Mexico's east coast Monday and Tuesday, so conditions appear favorable for localized disease development there. 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.