Numerous locations record 100-degree temperatures

Scorching daytime highs were recorded across much of New Mexico for the week ending July 1, with numerous locations reaching past the 100 degree temperature mark, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Mountain Regional Field Office, New Mexico. Scattered precipitation was received last week, helping some crop conditions improve, but much more is needed to reverse the dryness that continues to hurt the state. Topsoil moisture levels were reported as 15 percent adequate to surplus, compared with 13 percent last week, 52 percent last year, and a 5-year average of 33 percent. Wheat in Union County looked to be in good condition and was being harvested. Precipitation was recorded at 11 out of 43 reporting weather stations, with Deming, at 1.84 inches, reporting the largest accumulation during the week. Cloudcroft also reported moisture totals over one inch. Average temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below to 10 degrees above normal.