Kern County Citrus Growers Brace for Record Heat

Experts warn that the upcoming heat wave could threaten the spring citrus bloom.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:37am

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Citrus growers in Kern County, California are preparing for a potentially damaging heat wave that could impact their spring citrus bloom. Bakersfield College professor Lindsay Ono warned that the record-breaking temperatures expected this week will pose significant challenges for local growers as they emerge from the spring bloom season.

Why it matters

Kern County is a major citrus-producing region, with oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits being a crucial agricultural product. Any disruption to the spring bloom could have significant economic impacts for local growers and the broader community.

The details

The heat wave is expected to bring temperatures well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit to the Bakersfield area, potentially stressing citrus trees that are still recovering from the spring bloom. Ono noted that the extreme heat could damage flowers, fruit, and leaves, threatening the overall health and productivity of the citrus crop.

  • The heat wave is expected to hit Kern County starting on March 20, 2026.

The players

Lindsay Ono

A professor at Bakersfield College who specializes in agricultural sciences and the impacts of weather on local crops.

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What they’re saying

“Citrus growers are expected to have challenges with the heat spike this week.”

— Lindsay Ono, Professor, Bakersfield College (bakersfieldnow.com)

What’s next

Growers in Kern County will be closely monitoring the weather and taking measures to protect their citrus crops, such as increasing irrigation and applying shade cloth, as the heat wave approaches.

The takeaway

The upcoming heat wave poses a significant threat to Kern County's vital citrus industry, highlighting the vulnerability of agricultural production to extreme weather events. This underscores the importance of sustainable farming practices and climate adaptation strategies to ensure the long-term viability of the region's agricultural economy.