Most major California growing regions, including the Salinas Valley, reached the peak of the current heat wave on September 5, with daytime highs that reached well into the 90°s near the coast to over 110° inland. These temperatures are 15°-30° above seasonal averages and will absolutely have a negative effect on the quality and shelf-life of row crops such as broccoli, lettuce, strawberries, and tender leaf items.

The heat is forecast to persist through Thursday, September 8 before the arrival of some tropical moisture that brings a chance of showers and possible thunderstorms on Saturday, September 10.

Maintaining the cold chain throughout distribution is critical for maximizing quality and shelf-life. Markon inspectors are currently assessing fields and will update further as the effects of the heat start to present themselves.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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