California Citrus Crop OK Despite Cold Temps

FRESNO, Calif. (AP) — A California citrus trade group says temperatures did not drop low enough overnight to cause any crop damage.

Bob Blakely, of California Citrus Mutual, said on Wednesday that temperatures in the Central Valley stayed in the upper 20s. Citrus farmers, however, are anticipating colder temperatures overnight Wednesday and Thursday and are continuing to take precautions.

Farmers have been checking wind machines and running water through their fields in anticipation of the colder temperatures. Wet ground increases the absorption of heat that can keep groves warmer at night. Wind machines keep warm air from rising.

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