Severe heatwave in Southern and Eastern Europe ravishes cultivation and trade of fruits and vegetables

The long-lasting heatwave in Southern and Eastern Europe is having a major effect on the cultivation and trade of fruits and vegetables, especially in Italy and the Balkans. Certain harvests are several weeks advanced already, which is why there’s now a larger supply of fruits and vegetables in some countries. However, in the long term, the heat could cause enormous shortages. By now, eleven European countries are giving out warnings for heatwave ‘Lucifer.’ A water shortage is an increasing problem, and there’s been much less rain than usual. Harvests are damaged because of this, and growers expect losses and smaller sizes. The damages and losses up till now are not yet clear. Especially Italy is suffering because of the extreme weather. In June, they were plagued by drought, causing a critical situation. Read full report