Sonipat: A new weather system is expected to sweep Haryana from Oct 7 through Oct 12, delivering intermittent rain and gusty breezes. The forecast has set off alarm bells among farmers and commission agents, as large heaps of paddy, millet, moong and other cereals lie exposed in several mandis.
Any significant downpour could raise the moisture level of these stored grains, compromising both quality and the price that growers can command. Prompt protective measures will be crucial to keep the harvest dry.
Weather analyst Dr. Chandramohan noted that the recent temperature rise was a result of clear skies and persistent westerly winds. A series of western disturbances is now predicted to intervene, likely ushering cooler air and a break from the heat.
First Western Disturbance Targets Northern Haryana
Model outputs suggest that the first western disturbance will activate on the night of Oct 7, with its strongest impact felt in the northern districts. These areas could experience measurable rainfall, while the western and southern zones are likely to see overcast conditions with occasional light drizzle.
A second system is forecast for the night of Oct 9, potentially extending rain‑affected zones to the north‑west of the state. A third disturbance, expected around Oct 13, may even bring snowfall to the higher elevations of the hills.
Open‑Stored Crops Face Immediate Rain Risk
Market yards where harvested grains remain uncovered are now under heightened scrutiny. Paddy, millet, moong and other cereals are currently stacked in the open at several mandis.
Heavy rain would introduce water into the grain mass, dulling its appearance and lowering its market value. Traders, market officials and farmers must act swiftly to tarp or otherwise shield the stocks before conditions deteriorate.
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.
Rain at this stage could trigger fungal infections 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 the weather permits.
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—making harvesting harder and potentially reducing 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 most of the millet crop across Haryana has already been harvested, lowering the risk of field losses.
Nevertheless, the grain that remains in open storage is still vulnerable. Moisture from rain can darken the kernels, reducing 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 coming week, authorities urge farmers and traders to remain cautious, especially regarding already‑harvested produce that has yet to be moved into secure storage.
