Weather Update
Cold morning temperatures look to continue across Southern California. The Southwestern Desert regions and Northern Mexico has a number of dry cold fronts moving through the region into the weekend. Slight warming expected early next week in front of the next dry cold system mid-week. Central Mexico will see temperatures gradually warm to seasonal averages by early next week. Florida will see strong winds in front of a strong system expected Friday with rain, winds and cool temperatures. Gradual warming early next week with isolated afternoon showers forecast.
Freight Update
California and Arizona trucks are plentiful and look to stay that way for the near future. Washington apple trucks look to be steady. Idaho onion and potato trucks both remain a little snug. Trucks are available but trying to take advantage of rates. The national average remained steady this week at $3.037 per gallon. California prices remained steady and are currently at $3.866 per gallon. Crude oil dropped slightly and is currently at $50.79 per barrel.
Things You Should Know
Berries (Strawberries): West Coast projected harvest numbers are reduced due to recent colder temperatures This is creating problems for the increased demand we are experiencing during the Valentines day pull.
Citrus (Oranges): Small size oranges remain tight. Please continue putting orders in advance.
Grapes (Green): Green grape supplies will remain consistent with promotional opportunities becoming available as we move forward.
Grapes (Red): Red grape supplies will be improving as we move forward. Look for improved supplies and promotional opportunities.
Lettuce Iceberg: Cool weather in the desert has caused some ice delays at harvesting time.
Lettuce Leaf: Ice delays have occured in the desert this week.
Onions: Optimal storage for onions is cool, dry, well ventilated area with temps from 36-40 degrees.
Potatoes: Large sizes remain limited. Cold weather slowing production
Potatoes (Colored): Red potato markets rising; B size and #2 grade limited.
Stone Fruit: Supplies are slowly improving and prices are starting to decline. More sizes are becoming available on all varieties.
Transitions and Temperatures
Potatoes (Colored): Wisconsin finishing for the season
Onions: Mexican yellow and white onions available in South Texas. Red onions will begin crossing late next week.
A Peak at Peak Seasons
Stone Fruit: We expect Chilean peak production period to start up mid February and last through March.
Grapes (Green): We are starting peak production in Chile this week. Supplies will improve starting next week and peak production will last through the next 4-6 weeks.
Grapes (Red): We are starting peak production in Chile this week. Supplies will improve starting next week and peak production will last through the next 4-6 weeks.
