Several pastures planted to ryegrass in the central and northeast region of the state and some in the northwest counties, among them Pasco, Hernando, Sumter, Osceola, Brevard, and Orange counties, were reported with a severe blight.  In many cases, the outbreak occurred after the second nitrogen fertilizer application to an apparently healthy, green and lush ryegrass stand.  Unusually high night temperatures of 50-60 °F and day temperatures in the upper 70s °F or higher were recorded in the months of December and January.  And a significant rain event occurred 7-10 days prior to clinical signs.  Fields planted early in the normal planting window were more severely affected than those planted later.  The devastating sudden blast was in part associated with fungal leaf diseases and with insect damage.  Samples were positive for ‘gray leaf spot’ (Pyricularia grisea) and ‘leaf and crown rot’ (Bipolaris spp.).  Additional associated insect pests were found in excessive numbers feeding on young tillers and these were identified as ‘loopers’ (Mocis ) and ‘true army worms’ (Pseudatelia unipuncta).  Pasture stands that were not totally lost, recovered rapidly following the onset of cold temperatures.  Among the control practices recommended when under mild winters are to avoid the application of high rates of nitrogen fertilizer and N sources that are readily available, such as urea.