WEATHER UPDATE
A strong storm system tapping into subtropical moisture will bring significant precipitation to Central California late Thursday into the weekend. A series of weaker system move into Northern California next week. Warm and dry conditions continue across Mexico and the southwestern desert regions under a weak high pressure. Gusty winds and a slight cool down over the weekend as storm systems pass to the north.. Typical scattered showers and afternoon thunderstorms will continue across Florida as cold fronts move through the region.
FREIGHT UPDATE
California/Yuma trucks continue to be steady. Washington apple truck supply is adequate. Idaho onion/potato trucks remain steady as well. The national average for diesel rose slightly and is currently at 3.042 per gallon. An increase of .486 from this time last year. California prices rose as well and are now at 3.714 per gallon. Crude oil remained steady and is currently at 63.09 per barrel.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Berries (Blueberries): Supplies are limited this week as we wait on domestic harvest to ramp up.
Berries (Raspberries): Supplies are expected to be limited and prices higher for the next 2 weeks.
Citrus (Limes): Supplies will gradually improve over the next 2 weeks and we expect to see a good increase in smaller sizes.
Melon (Watermelon): The market is very strong, light supplies on all sizes.
TEMPERATURES AND TRANSITIONS
Berries (Blueberries): California and Florida are expected to increase over the next 2 weeks. Georgia will get started mid April.
Berries (Blackberries): Domestic production is expected to start by mid April.
Berries (Raspberries): Domestic harvest is expected to start in 2-3 weeks.
Berries (Strawberries): Depending on the severity of the upcoming rain this weekend, Salinas and Watsonville are expected to ramp up my mid to late April.
Asparagus: Mexico will be transitioning to Central Mexcio in about 2 weeks.
Lettuce Iceberg: Yuma will have production 1-2 weeks more then be finished.
Onions: Northwest Storage season slowly winding down with new crop supplies in California about ready to start.
Celery: Yuma will be winding down production this week.
Lettuce Leaf: Yuma will finish up on all leaf items this week. Huron and Salinas as well as Santa Maria will be the areas of harvesting for these commodities.
PEAK SEASONS
Apples: Washington CA apples of all colors are in peak season
