Winter blast prompts Florida officials to push for USDA disaster assistance

The ongoing winter blast hitting the southeast has prompted Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson to request a disaster declaration and assistance for specialty crop growers throughout the state.

Simpson wrote a letter to USDA Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins detailing the situation in the Sunshine State, stating “forecasts indicate sub-freezing temperatures reaching as far south as Collier and Broward counties, along with sustained winds of 20-30 mph and gusts up to 50 mph.

He added the harsh winter conditions threaten Florida’s winter crops, which include:

In terms of specific grower remedies, Simpson said, “We are confident that under your leadership, USDA will move promptly to make any and all assistance available under the Farm Service Agency and other USDA programs available to farmers to help them recover. Florida’s producers are taking every possible step to protect their operations, but the severity of this storm will result in losses that require swift federal support.”

While Simpson’s letter predated this weekend’s icy conditions, the threat remains ongoing. According to FloridaPolitics.com, NWS forecasters project “widespread frost” into Monday and Florida temperatures are expected to fall into the 30s again on Tuesday night. Sub-freezing temperatures could stretch as far south into areas such as Collier County on the Gulf Coast and Broward County on the Atlantic Coast.

Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (FFVA) issues statement

FFVA shared the following statement on its Harvester blog on Feb. 2, 2026:

Florida saw a historic storm sweep through the state this weekend, presenting extraordinary challenges for our state’s growers. In the face of freezing temperatures, our farmers demonstrated remarkable dedication and care, working tirelessly around the clock to protect their crops. That commitment was evident in every action at all hours of the night, whether deploying frost protection measures, closely monitoring fields, replacing broken irrigation, or making rapid, critical decisions to safeguard the fruits and vegetables that nourish families nationwide.

At first light the following morning, growers were back out in the fields, carefully assessing for any signs of freeze injury. It will take time to fully understand the extent of the impact, which will vary greatly by crop and farm location.

Despite a demanding and exhausting weekend, harvesting continued across much of the state today, a testament to the perseverance and spirit of Florida’s farmers. As we look ahead, forecasts predict a return to the sunny skies and warmer temperatures our state is known for at this time of year.

That’s why, choosing Fresh From Florida produce will have deeper meaning this season. Because behind every piece of fruit or vegetable is a story of resilience, a farmer and farmworker who have persevered through the most difficult of times to plant, grow and harvest nutritious food for American consumers.

Thank you for supporting Florida agriculture.