On Tuesday, 19 May, Murcia and Albacete registered an intense hailstorm that is estimated to have caused serious damage to some 1,800 hectares of crops.

The storm took place on the border between Murcia and Albacete, with the northern Altiplano region being the hardest hit area, mainly Jumilla, with about 1,000 hectares, and Yecla, with 800 hectares.

The most affected crops have been grapes and cherries in the Altiplano region, with 100% of the production lost this year and about 70% for next year in the case of grapes and between 50 and 75% for cherries, as reported by ASAJA Murcia.

Almonds, with about 30% lost, as well as pear and stonefruit trees, have also been affected.

Damage to the wood of the trees can lead to the development of bacteria and facilitate the spread of pests and diseases.As for Albacete, losses affect mainly grapes, garlic and cereals.

Cajamurcia and Cajamar will facilitate financial support to affected producers, including advances on compensations for the damage caused and loans in preferential conditions.

Source - http://www.freshplaza.com