Cold snap hits vegetable, citrus and avocado crops of central Chile

Early June frosts may have serious consequences for the crops of Chile’s central zone, particularly, citrus, which are in full harvest, and avocados, whose harvest begins in August. The damage appears to have affected buds and fruits and has even struck the northern Coquimbo area’s potatoes, squash, cucumbers and beans. Table grapes and stone fruits are expected to escape unharmed.

The cold weather did not bring any rains, and with the Maipo Valley’s reserves perilously low, next year’s harvest is already in jeopardy. Nevertheless, weather experts are forecasting some long overdue rain over the coming weeks.