The abnormal heat wave led to massive harvest losses of pistachios in California.

Pistachio growers in California have faced significant economic losses due to the impact of extreme heat on the fruit set process. In March, air temperatures in the San Joaquin Valley rose to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Such weather conditions negatively affected the biological cycle of pistachio trees, which rely on wind for pollination.

According to Kern County Assistant Agricultural Commissioner Cerise Montanio, the heat caused the development of male and female flowers to become desynchronized: the pollen was dispersed before the female flowers were ready for pollination. This led to poor nut development and a reduction in harvest volumes. In Kern County, losses amounted to 56% of the projected volume, estimated at approximately $396 million. A similar situation is observed in Fresno County, where, according to Deputy Agricultural Commissioner Mandy Zito, production losses are estimated at around $400 million. In total, across Fresno, Kern, and Tulare counties, more than 337,000 acres of land were affected, with total damages reaching $800 million.

California provides about 99% of the national pistachio production, and the current season may be one of the least productive in recent years. Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds, the largest producer in the industry, confirmed the need to adjust product prices. Michael Homan, the company's CFO and Executive Vice President, stated that this decision is aimed at maintaining sector stability, with the increase in retail prices being less significant than the farmers' losses. The industry, valued at $3 billion, is attempting to adapt to the consequences of climate anomalies amidst growing consumer demand for pistachios.