La Unió Llauradora reported that last weekend’s severe thunderstorms, hail, and wind affected approximately 8,000 hectares of crops in the provinces of Castellón and Valencia. Initial losses are estimated at more than 29 million euros, a figure that could increase depending on the evolution of the crops.
The Plana Baixa was the most affected region. It also caused damage in Alto Palancia and Alto Mijares (Castellón), as well as Camp de Morvedre (Valencia), FreshPlaza notes.
The most severe damage was done to citrus crops, a main crop in the Plana Baixa region, as the weather event affected nearly 5,000 hectares of this crop, leading to losses of over 22 million euros. Vegetable, melon, watermelon, avocado, olive, and almond crops were also impacted.
According to La Unió, due to the heavy hail, the sector expects the lowest Clemenules harvest ever in the province of Castellón. The trees were also significantly defoliated, which will inevitably lead to additional losses next season.
La Unió will request the Ministry of Agriculture to officially declare the most affected areas in La Plana Baixa a disaster zone.
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According to the agricultural organization, this damage is covered by the current agricultural insurance system. La Unió will ask Agroseguro to expedite the appraisals of the affected plots so farmers can receive compensation as soon as possible.
La Unió is also advocating for additional support measures for growers who have lost more than 30% of their production, including crops for which no suitable insurance is available, such as vegetables, olives, and almonds.
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