IRVINE, CA - Good morning, AndNowUKnow readers!

After some time away, I am back bringing you some of the category and weather news from around the industry. Check back twice weekly to see where the rain is falling, the sun is shining, and everything in between.

Here are a few of the regions to be aware of...

EXCESSIVE HEAT COMING TO THE NORTHWEST

Parts of Oregon and Washington can expect excessive heat today and tomorrow. In Oregon, the entire length of the Willamette Valley from Eugene in the South up to Portland in the North will see high temperatures today and tomorrow in the upper 90°s, with some isolated 100° temperatures. These temperatures are about 10° above Monday’s highs. This valley is a big player in the berry markets this time of year and these warm temperatures might cause a bump in production.

The Wenatchee and Yakima Valleys of Washington will also see high temperatures in the mid-to-upper 90°s this week. Items coming from these regions may see a small spike in production as well. Temperatures in Washington will cool off on Sunday of this week.

EXCESSIVE HEAT CONTINUES IN THE SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

The latest heat wave to hit the SJ Valley, which started Sunday, will continue through tomorrow. Maximum temperatures up and down the valley are ranging from 103° to 106° depending on the day and location. Possible bump in production on items coming from this area? Please check with shippers.

LATE WINTER HEAT WAVE IN CHILE

Major Chilean fruit growing regions are currently experiencing a late winter heat wave. The high temperatures are ranging from the upper 70°s to the mid 80°s and lows in the mid 50°s. Today will be the peak of the heat wave that started late last week and will continue through tomorrow. These temperatures are 15°-20° above normal for this time of year. By the weekend, highs will be back down in the 60°s and minimums in the low 40°s. Could these temperature swings have any effect on upcoming tree fruit blossoms?

HURRICANE CENTER UPDATE

The main concern now is Tropical Storm Dorian, which is just off the northern coast of South America, making its way west toward Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic where it should hit sometime Thursday morning. There is about a 90 percent chance of the storm forming a cyclone. Rains along the way will range from 3” to 9”. If the storm makes it way through the island of Hispaniola intact, then there may be a chance it makes landfall somewhere in Florida this weekend. We will have an update for you on Friday.

Thank you as always! We'll be back on Friday with another report.

Weathermelon