Mid-way through October, only around 35-40 per cent of the crop had been harvested compared to an average of 70 per cent to that date previously.

The LSU AgCenter Sweet Potato Research Station reported more than 7.5 inches of rain fell from mid-September to mid October and in other areas of the state there were reports of producers seeing up to 20 inches of rainfall.

In June and July, irrigation had been used by many to combat dry conditions affecting crops planted in May, particularly in South Louisiana.

Sweet potato harvest usually begins in August, but dry conditions during the growing season resulted in an undersized crop and producers delayed harvest to allow for further growth.

Initial reports indicated the crop would have good quality and average yields before heavy rain during September