Florida is seeing some of its coldest temperatures in recent memory, but a Florida Citrus Mutual spokesman says oranges will actually be able to benefit from the current temperatures.
Florida orange growers are tip-toeing the crucial 28 degree line. If temperatures are below 28 degrees for 4 hours or more, it can cause damage to the fruit. Florida Citrus Mutual's Director of Communications Andrew Meadows says the temperatures stayed above 28 degrees, so no damage has been done to the fruit.
"Some chilling days... can sweeten the fruit, so it's a real balancing act,” Meadows said. “We got up to that line and didn't cross it, therefore these next few days have been a positive for us and it will help sweeten the fruit, and that's a good thing.”
Meadows says they are not expecting temperatures to dip below 28 degrees tonight or tomorrow morning.
In other cold related news in the Bay area, Tampa International Airport continues to have delays and cancelations due icy conditions across the country. To find a list of shelters in the bay area go to http://www.wfla.com/story/24375635/cold-weather-shelters-to-open-throughout-tampa-bay
