RIO GRANDE, TX - The Rio Grande is seeing its first snowfall in about 13 years, and while it could put a slight pause on harvest, the majority of the reception is disbelief at the rarity of a white blanket as Christmas approaches.
“We woke up to a sight we have not seen since 2004. Snow!” Tommy Wilkins, Director of Sales for Grow Farms Texas, shares with me. “While some are excited by this rare event, harvest schedules are delayed. The impact to crops at this point appears minimal, but we are closely watching the weather.”
Other sources, too, report that crops are looking good thus far as of 9 a.m. this morning PST, though cold temperatures the last couple of days could slow harvest. The National Weather Service reports cooler temperatures in the mid to low 30s for the McAllen area the last 48 hours, with light snow and fog this morning.
“On another note, rain and cooler weather help cabbage and fall crop, but we may see light leaf burn some the tender greens,” Tommy shares. “Luckily, we have quality inspections in place to address any challenges that may arise.”
At this point it looks as though the industry is not anticipating any supply outages related to the weather, and the forecast for the region does not look to keep the powder on the ground. The sun will likely return this weekend with temperatures in the higher 60s.
AndNowUKnow will follow this and other weather systems that could affect produce, so stay tuned.
