Assessing Cotton Yield Loss to Hail Damage in Southern Arizona

Hail storms are unpredictable and can cause economic losses each year in all cotton-growing areas of Arizona (Figure 1). Most growers who finance all or a portion of their production are required to purchase hail insurance, especially in regions with a high frequency of hail storms. About 70% of Arizona cotton growers purchase hail insurance due to the occurrence of heavy thunderstorms which can be accompanied by hail during the summer monsoon season. Information on assessment of cotton yield losses caused by hail storms is important for making replanting and other management decisions. Additionally, understanding insurance adjustment and cotton growth dynamics after hail damage helps growers protect their interests. This article will familiarize growers with estimating hail-induced yield loss in cotton at different growth stages and management options following a hail storm.