Weather Update
High pressure out west keeps the region in seasonable temperatures as a series of dry cold fronts move through the region next week. The Southwestern Desert regions received rainfall with amounts between 1/4 and 3/4 of an inch early this week as seasonable temperatures and dry conditions return. Strong gusty winds are expected next week as a series of dry low-pressure systems pass to the north. Temperatures warm gradually across Mexico to slightly below normal temperatures with dry conditions into next week. A stalled frontal boundary pulls in warm humid conditions across Florida mid-week with light showers across the northern half of the state. Southernly flow with gusty winds and isolated light showers are expected into next week.
Freight Update
California and Arizona trucks continue to be plentiful and look to stay that way for the near future. Washington apple trucks remain steady. Idaho onion and potato trucks both remain a little snug. Potato trucks are available but trying to take advantage of rates. The national average dropped slightly this week at $2.910 per gallon. California prices dropped as well and are currently at $3.784 per gallon. Crude oil remained steady and is currently at $51.66 per barrel.
What You Should Know
Avocado (Mexican): Mexican growers posturing for elevated field prices and scaling back on the harvest. 48’s and larger holding at a premium. Demand exceeds supply.
Berries (Blueberries): Look for higher pricing and lighter availability on this item.
Berries (Raspberries): The same rains affecting the Mexican strawberries are reducing yields on this item as well.
Berries (Strawberries): Rains in Central Mexico and Baja have caused temporary shortages out of those areas.
Citrus (Oranges): 138’s remain very limited, keep putting orders in advance for better coverage.
Grapes (Green): Good supplies now, but shortages are expected in 3-4 weeks.
Grapes (Red): Chilean supplies are improving and prices are decreasing. However, we expect things to change quickly 3-4 weeks from now. We may experience a possible shortage as we look toward Mexico transition.
Lettuce Iceberg: Rain and cold temperatures will hit the Yuma region all this week. Production will be limited.
Lettuce Leaf: Rain and cold weather has hit the desert region, affecting quality and production.
Onions: Optimal storage for onions is cool, dry, well ventilated area with temps from 36-40 degrees.
Potatoes: Markets remain elevated. Some lots will exhibit peepers and light mold.
Potatoes (Colored): Markets higher on red and white potatoes. Supplies limited on B size and #2 grade reds.
Stone Fruit: Availability is dependent on container arrivals. This week, plums have been limited. We expect better supplies by the weekend.
Tomatoes (Western): Adverse weather has greatly reduced harvest schedules and crossings. Product is very limited this week. Elevated market expected through February.
Transitions and Temperatures
Onions: Mexico is crossing all three colors into South Texas.
Potatoes (Colored): Southern Florida has started on red and yellow. Markets elevated.
Grapes (Green): Mexico usually starts by late March, but freezing temps may impact start dates and yields.
Grapes (Red): Mexico usually starts late March, but cold weather could have an impact on start dates and yields.
A Peak at Peak Seasons
Stone Fruit: We will hopefully see peak production numbers over the next 2-3 weeks.
Grapes (Green): We are currently in the middle of peak Chilean production.
Grapes (Red): We are currently in the peak of import production. We expect it to last another 3-4 weeks.
