Strawberry Update- Heat Advisory Impact

Tues, October 13th, 2026

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

A heat advisory has been issued for this weekend and is expected to impact strawberry production and quality through next week.
Temperatures are forecasted to increase significantly beginning Sunday, 10/4, and remain elevated through Friday, 10/9 (see graphs below).
The prolonged heat event is expected to negatively affect both production volumes and overall fruit quality next week.
Growers are planning to maximize harvesting efforts over the weekend to reduce fruit exposure to extreme temperatures.
Berry sizing is expected to decrease, with pack-outs trending toward 24 to 28 berries per clamshell.
Quality concerns are expected to include:
- Bronzing caused by sun scald.
- Increased occurrence of white tips and shoulders.
- Slightly immature fruit being harvested as crews work to remove product from the fields ahead of peak heat conditions.

Outlook:
Expect reduced production, smaller berry sizes, and elevated quality challenges throughout next week as the industry manages the impact of sustained high temperatures

If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce