The sudden drop in temperature has prompted panic in sections of the farming community, amidst fears that yields of apples and other fruit will be damaged.

Losses have already been reported in a number of provinces, as evidenced in Silesia, Warmia, Mazuria, Wielkopolska and Kujavia-Pomerania.

The severest problems are occurring where orchards have blossomed early, notably regarding cherries, apricots and peaches.

Farmers are taking emergency measures in the mornings in an effort to combat the frost, spraying orchards with micronutrients.

The dangers are twofold, as not only may the yields be reduced in quantity, the quality of the final product may also be lower.

Ten years ago, farmers lost approximately 90 percent of their harvests when severe frosts returned in spring.

Farmers are hoping that such a drastic situation will not be repeated this year. (nh)