New Jersey Faces Big Crop Loss After Sudden Freeze

A sudden drop in temperature after a hot April spell has left many New Jersey farms without harvests. The heat pushed some areas over 90 degrees, making fruit trees bloom early. Then, from April 19 to 22, the weather flipped and temperatures fell into the low 20s. This timing was bad for crops that were still growing. Farmers say they could lose all of some produce, and state officials estimate the damage is worth at least $300 million. The loss hurts farmers’ incomes and could raise prices for everyday foods.Because of the scale of the problem, Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency in all 21 counties. The order is meant to speed up help for farmers and keep local economies from falling apart. The emergency lets the state use resources more quickly. It bypasses some usual paperwork and moves recovery funds to farms that need them right away. Officials say the emergency will also help stabilize markets. If farmers can recover faster, it may keep food prices steadier for shoppers. The situation shows how quickly weather can change and affect agriculture. It also highlights the need for quick government action when crops are hit hard.