Gov. Cox declares state of emergency for crop losses caused by freezing temperatures

SALT LAKE CITY (May 15, 2026) - Gov. Spencer J. Cox today signed Executive Order 2026-01 declaring a 30-day state of emergency in Box Elder, Cache, Davis, Iron, Juab, Millard, Piute, Sanpete, Utah, and Weber counties due to crop losses caused by freezing temperatures.

Freezing temperatures on April 3, 4, 17 and 18 damaged crop production in affected areas, with weather stations recording temperatures below 26 degrees Fahrenheit for more than eight hours. Apricots, sweet and tart cherries, plums, peaches, pears and apples suffered between 95% and 100% loss. Wheat and alfalfa producers in these counties are also experiencing production losses.

"Conditions this year have already deeply affected agricultural producers here in Utah," Gov. Cox said. "Due to an unexpected freeze in April following unseasonably warm conditions, many are facing devastating crop losses. This is the time in the season when emergency resources have the best chance to make a real difference in our farmers' ability to survive and recover."

"We appreciate Governor Cox acting quickly on this and allowing us to open up our disaster relief programs, as well as provide farmers with eligibility for federal assistance," said Kelly Pehrson, commissioner of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food. "In tough situations like crop loss, we have a duty to get assistance to producers and help them through seasons that might otherwise be too difficult to weather."

The freeze is expected to affect agricultural producers, consumers, local markets and the seasonal workforce that relies on the annual harvest.

These conditions create a state of emergency under the Disaster Response and Recovery Act, found in Title 53, Chapter 2a of the Utah Code. The emergency declaration allows affected agricultural producers to access resources and assistance from the United States Department of Agriculture and the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food.

The order is effective immediately and will remain in effect for 30 days unless extended by the Legislature.