The last 2 weeks have felt quite spring-like, particularly here in the valley, and has caused many trees to begin to bloom. Almond farmers are thrilled to see their trees blooming, but this sensitive period is extremely important for this year's harvest. 

Almond trees are typically in bloom for about a two week period, and sets the stage for the entire season's harvest. Ideally, there would quiet weather without rain or windy conditions that could threaten the flowering almond trees. 

Yesterday's rain and windy conditions caused some concern, however the Kern County Farm Bureau's Executive Director Beatris Sanders said many of the county's almonds fared very well. Additionally, El Nino has provided a "slow and steady" supply of rainfall throughout the rainy season thus far.