A cooler, wet weather pattern moved into key West Coast growing regions starting October 21, replacing last week's heat. Markon Cooperative is working with growers to pack orders ahead, and harvesting crews are taking steps to keep field-packed boxes as clean and dry as possible. Sporadic showers, increased humidity, and prolonged morning moisture are forecast through October 22 across Salinas Valley, Santa Maria, Oxnard, and Huron.
This timing matters because lettuce supplies in Salinas were already flagged as tight heading into November. Wet conditions add another layer of pressure — reduced yields, variable case weights, and loading delays are all possible. Tender leaf items and value-added lettuce are under closest watch from Markon inspectors.
Buyers ordering lettuce and leafy items should watch for short-notice supply updates over the next few days. Quick-turn ordering is recommended, and strict cold-chain management is critical given the moisture and humidity involved.