EAST COAST - A series of strong storms that have rocked the southern U.S. this week is now making its way up the East Coast, with Friday and Saturday expected to bring the most intense activity. Areas along the I-85 and I-95 corridors, from the Carolinas through southeastern Virginia, could experience damaging winds, hail, and localized flash flooding, according to AccuWeather.

Meteorologists are advising caution, especially for those traveling or managing time-sensitive shipments. Saturday’s forecast includes the potential for power outages, downed trees, and delays at major hubs such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.

Some of the storms may be brief but intense, with the possibility of rain-wrapped tornadoes that could go unnoticed until post-damage. Heavier, more prolonged rain is also expected to reach into New England by the end of the weekend, while the southern states should see a temporary break in storm activity starting Sunday.

As weather continues to disrupt typical patterns, ANUK will monitor for any logistical ripple effects in the fresh produce supply chain.

FRESNO, CA - The 2025-26 California table grape season is officially underway, with harvesting beginning in mid-May in the Coachella Valley in Southern California. Grapes will continue to be harvested in the Coachella Valley through mid-July before shifting north to the San Joaquin Valley, where grapes are harvested into December.

To support the season, the California Table Grape Commission launched a global marketing campaign strategically developed to motivate the trade to stock and promote California table grapes, while inspiring consumers in the U.S. and across 21 export markets to choose more California grapes more often.

To encourage retailer participation, the campaign offers a comprehensive suite of promotional tools and incentives. These include bonus opportunities, digital promotions, a registered dietitian (RD) retail program, contests, point-of-purchase materials, and in-store sampling. On the consumer side, the campaign features advertising on multi-retailer shopper apps, digital coupons and rewards, influencer and RD collaborations, and targeted social media advertising that highlights recipes, snacking ideas, and the health benefits of California-grown fresh grapes.

“Grapes from California enjoy a long season, with plenty of opportunity for promotion, from summer celebrations to fall gatherings,” said Ian LeMay, commission president, in a recent press release. “With a product that has global appeal, strong demand, and a strategic marketing campaign executed by a dedicated team, the commission is yet again ready to continue promoting California table grapes in markets around the world,” said LeMay.

Throughout the season, the commission marketing team attends trade shows and expos to connect with industry partners. This week, the team is exhibiting at the West Coast Produce Expo and can be found at booth B709 and welcomes anyone interested in learning more about California table grape promotions.