WEATHER UPDATE
A cut-off low-pressure system forming off the West Coast will bring cooler temperatures, gusty winds, along with a coastal marine layer and drizzle to California fields Friday into early next week. This will cool the entire region through mid next week when high pressure and a warming trend takes palace. Scattered showers and generally above average temperatures continue across Central Mexico with warm temperatures and dry conditions expected to the north. A weak cold front moves into Florida late this week with a chance of showers followed by dry conditions and warmer temperatures through next week.
FREIGHT UPDATE
California trucks start out the week steady but tighten up as the week progresses. Rates are starting to climb as well. Washington apple truck supply is adequate. Idaho onion/potato trucks remain steady as well. The national average on diesel remained steady and is currently at 3.133 per gallon. An increase of .538 from this time last year. California prices increased as well and are now at 3.815 per gallon. Crude oil remained steady and is currently at 68.99 per barrel.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Bell Peppers (Western): Red and Yellow Bell Pepper market are stronger. Prices increasing.
Berries (Blackberries): Supplies are very limited and market prices are higher. Shortages are expected until domestic harvest increases.
Berries (Raspberries): Supplies remain very limited and market prices are higher.
Citrus (Oranges): Demand exceeds supplies of small size fruit 113s/138s.
Squash (Western): The market is very strong on the west coast. Light supplies and high demand on zucchini and yellow s/n.
TEMPERATURES AND TRANSITIONS
Onions: Supplies have shifted to California and South Texas.
Berries (Blueberries): California will ramp up with promotable volume over the next 2-4 weeks.
Berries (Blackberries): Domestic harvest is expected to increase over the next 2-4 weeks.
Berries (Raspberries): Domestic harvest is expected to start slowly over the next week and gradually improve over the next 2-4 weeks.
Berries (Strawberries): Oxnard will trend down as Santa Maria, Salinas, and Watsonville areas will be ramping up production.
Bell Peppers (Western): Green Bell Peppers available in Coachella.
PEAK SEASONS
Apples: Most varieties of Apples out of Washington are in peak season.
