Kaplan, La – Louisiana is typically known for its tropical climate but in recent years, scorching heat and little to no rain has affected more than just crops.
“This year is going to be a real challenge because the crawfish just won’t be there,” said Crawfish Haven/Mrs. Roses Bed & Breakfast Owner Barry Toups.
Last summer, south Louisiana experienced a record 99 days of consecutive temperatures surpassing 90 degrees and it’s affecting one of Louisiana’s largest industries, crawfish.
With rainfall down 44 percent since last year, locals are wondering if it’s too late? For many, it’s hard to imagine a spring without crawfish but for crawfish farmers like Barry, this is his harsh reality.
“On a normal basis like this upcoming Mardi Gras week, we would get an average 6-8 excursions on a weekend. I’m lucky if we do one this year because the crawfish is not there,” he said.
Barry says he’s seen a significant decline in crawfish. “We would pray every week that it would rain but that didn’t happen.”