On October 10, meteorological staff from Luochuan County Meteorological Bureau in Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province, visited apple cultivation bases in Zuoshan Village to assess the impact of persistent rainy and low-light weather conditions on late-ripening apple varieties since October, while delivering targeted "point-to-point" apple-specific meteorological services.
Weather personnel conducted field observations of late-season apple growth and coloration patterns, engaging with local fruit growers to discuss how recent weather conditions have affected the maturation and harvesting of late-ripening Red Fuji and other varieties. Farmers reported that the recent rainy weather has resulted in suboptimal apple coloration and reduced fruit surface luster.
In response to grower concerns, the County Meteorological Bureau has intensified weather monitoring frequency during the current period of rainy and low-light conditions, providing direct-access services through multiple channels including SMS, WeChat, and social media platforms. Based on current soil moisture conditions and weather trends, meteorological staff recommended that fruit growers promptly drain accumulated water to reduce field humidity levels. When soil conditions become adequately dry, they advised timely cultivation and soil loosening to improve soil permeability. Regarding weather-dependent operations, they suggested that bag removal should ideally be conducted during overcast or cloudy weather conditions.
Moving forward, Luochuan County Meteorological Bureau will continue monitoring weather developments and strengthen joint consultations with agricultural and rural affairs departments to provide scientific guidance for farmers' agricultural activities, ensuring stable apple production and increased yields.