Sonipat: A new weather system is expected to move over Haryana between October 7 and October 12, delivering intermittent rainfall and gusty breezes. The forecast has farmers and commission agents on edge, as large quantities of paddy, millet, moong and other crops remain exposed in several mandis.
Any significant downpour could raise the moisture content of these stored grains, compromising both their quality and the price that growers can command. Prompt protective measures will be crucial to keep the produce dry.
Weather expert Dr. Chandramohan noted that the recent temperature rise was driven by clear skies and steady westerly winds. A series of western disturbances is now predicted to intervene, likely bringing cooler air and a break from the heat.
First Western Disturbance Targets Northern Haryana
Model outputs show that a western disturbance will become active on the night of October 7, with its strongest impact expected in the northern districts. These areas could experience measurable rain, while the western and southern zones may see overcast conditions and occasional light drizzle.
A second disturbance is forecast for the night of October 9, potentially extending rain‑affected zones to the north‑western parts of the state. A third system around October 13 may even produce snowfall in the higher hill areas.
Open‑Stored Crops Face Immediate Rain Risk
Market yards where harvested grains lie uncovered are now under heightened scrutiny. Paddy, millet, moong and other cereals are currently stored in the open at several mandis.
Heavy rain would introduce water into the grain mass, degrading its appearance and reducing its market value. Traders, market officials, and farmers will need to act quickly to tarpaulin or otherwise shield the stocks before the weather worsens.
Paddy Still Awaiting Harvest in Many Fields
According to Dr. Mehrchand, Regional Director of the Rice Research Station in Kaul, several long‑duration paddy varieties have not yet been cut.
Rainfall at this stage could trigger fungal diseases and other moisture‑related problems, threatening both yield and grain quality. Growers with mature standing paddy should monitor forecasts closely and be ready to harvest as soon as conditions permit.
Strong Winds Pose a Threat to Sugarcane
The anticipated gusts could also trouble sugarcane growers. High wind speeds may topple standing stalks, a phenomenon known as lodging, which complicates harvesting and can diminish both output and quality.
Farmers in districts forecast to experience stronger breezes are advised to stay alert and consider protective measures such as windbreaks where feasible.
Millet Harvest Near Completion
Millet specialist Dr. Anil reports that the bulk of the millet crop across Haryana has already been harvested, reducing the risk of field loss.
Nevertheless, the grain that remains in open storage is still vulnerable. Moisture from rain can darken the kernels, lowering their grade and fetching a lower price in the market.
Stay Vigilant
With a succession of western disturbances slated to influence Haryana’s weather over the next week, authorities urge farmers and traders to remain cautious, especially regarding already‑harvested produce that has yet to be moved into secure storage.
