Europe’s harvests from grapes to apples hit by chaotic weather

Europe is experiencing significant agricultural losses due to unusual weather conditions caused by climate change. April frosts, wet springs, and droughts have devastated crops, with the European Union's apple yield expected to decrease by 10%, strawberry shortages, and olive oil production in Puglia, Italy, set to drop by over 50%. Poland, the continent's largest apple producer, is looking at a potential 30% decrease in output. The European Commission has allocated €62 million to aid affected countries, and there are concerns about the impact of these conditions on future harvests.

Germany, one of the world's leading wine producers, is struggling with a significant loss in its grape harvest due to these weather conditions. The UK's agricultural regions have also faced challenges, leading to smaller and later harvests of summer staples like strawberries, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Despite the heat, the UK's southeast saw more than double the average rainfall, affecting the development of flavour and colour in fruits. However, strawberries have benefited from the slower growth period, resulting in larger, more flavourful fruits.