TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
Farmers are already feeling the effects of the cold snap, and soon consumers could be feeling the hit on their grocery bill.
Lettuce prices are already going up and citrus prices could be next.
It is too early to total up the damage to the states farming industry, but early estimates are coming in.
Price increase could be between 10 and 30 percent on certain crops. Experts say it will take about a week to assess the full damage.
Grocery stores are already hearing from farmers to expect shortages.
What all this means, as well, is restaurants are expected to pay more for produce; but the good news for consumers is they are not likely to see a price increase in menu items because of it.
Dark greens like kale, collard and mustard greens are expected to survive the freeze.
What produce consumers might start seeing price hikes in: broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, cabbage and peppers.
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