Farmers in Latvia express growing concerns over the potential impact of severe frost on winter crops, as shared by agricultural experts speaking to Latvian media.

Indulis Jansons, Chairman of the Cereal Cooperative VAKS board, describes the current situation in the fields as unfavourable. Despite the absence of snow cover, the region is experiencing negative air temperatures, coupled with concerns about the impact of wind. Jansons acknowledges that, while the panic has not set in, there is a rising apprehension about potential harm to the upcoming harvest.

Ģirts Ozols, a board member of Cereal Cooperative Latraps and manager at the Agriculture Office, adds that the situation is exacerbated by the fact that most of Latvia's snow melted around Christmas. The warm weather has rendered winter crops more susceptible to the prevailing harsh conditions, especially in fields with high humidity. The presence of puddles indicates potential crop loss next spring.

Winter oilseed rape faces the most challenging situation, with its growth centre above ground. Rye demonstrates greater resilience, while the fate of winter barley and wheat depends on the specific conditions of each field. Ozols emphasizes the urgent need for snow to improve the situation, highlighting that every centimetre of snowfall would be beneficial.

Despite the frost posing challenges, Ozols notes a silver lining—the hope that pests will freeze, resulting in fewer issues in the spring. A more accurate assessment of field conditions is anticipated in March.