A late-season heat event will peak across California growing regions through this Saturday as high pressure keeps temperatures well above seasonal norms. A significant pattern change arrives Sunday into early next week, bringing cooler weather, increased cloud cover, and the potential for light rain or drizzle across several production districts.
Salinas, Santa Maria, and Oxnard, California:
- Coastal temperatures will climb into the 80s through Saturday, while inland highs will reach into the mid-90s
- The forecast for Monday, October 19 through Thursday, October 22 calls for cooler weather, spotty drizzle, and isolated showers
- High pressure returns by Friday, October 23, bringing temperatures back to slightly above normal
Huron, California
- Warm, dry weather will persist through Saturday with highs near 90°F and low humidity levels
- Cooler conditions arrive Monday with a lower chance for showers mid-week
Yuma, Arizona
- Expect temperatures in the mid-80s to near 90°F through early next week
- The primary concern will be strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching 45-50 mph Friday and Saturday
- Isolated light showers are possible this weekend, with another chance for cooler, unsettled conditions next week
Field Outlook
- The heat forecast through Saturday may accelerate crop stress and impact product shelf life
- The transition to cooler weather next week should provide relief across most growing regions, but prolonged humidity, morning moisture, and any light precipitation could increase harvest challenges and elevate quality concerns for row crop items
- Markon inspectors will monitor commodity and value-added items for the following weather-related issues:
- Bottom rot, dehydration, internal burn, insect pressure, mildew, weak tip, rib blight, premature pinking, and reduced shelf-life performance in lettuce and tender leaf items
- Pin rot, brown bead/yellow bead, hollow core, mildew/black mold, and reduced shelf-life performance in broccoli and/or cauliflower supplies
- Reduced yields and case weights in most commodity row crop items
Ordering for quick turns is recommended, and as always, strict cold-chain management is critical to maximize quality and shelf life.
Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.
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