News In Brief

Cold along Gulf coast kills millions of fish

Freezing weather has killed off millions of fish along the Gulf coast in what experts say is the worst fish kill in their area in 21 years, with possible dire effects for the local industry.

Fish killed or stunned by 24-degree F. surface temperatures have been washing ashore since Monday along the Gulf coast. Industry spokesmen said fish driven out to warmer waters would eventually return to spawn in bays and shallows, but it could take years to replenish the population.

Meanwhile, the government said fresh-fruit prices may rise moderately and vegetable prices may be pushed even higher by the Christmas freeze in the South, but that major increases in food prices are doubtful.