Sonipat: A new weather system will roll over Haryana between Oct 7 and Oct 12, bringing intermittent rain and brisk gusts. The forecast has farmers and commission agents on edge, as large stacks of paddy, millet, moong and other cereals sit exposed in several mandis.
Any significant downpour could raise the moisture level of these stored grains, jeopardising their quality and depressing the prices that growers can command. Prompt protective measures will be vital to keep the harvest dry.
Weather analyst Dr. Chandramohan noted that the recent temperature rise stemmed from clear skies and persistent westerly breezes. A series of western disturbances is now expected to intervene, likely ushering cooler air and a break from the heat.
First Western Disturbance Hits Northern Haryana
Model projections show a western disturbance becoming active on the night of Oct 7, with its strongest impact in the northern districts. Those areas may experience measurable rain, while the western and southern zones are likely to see overcast conditions and occasional light drizzle.
A second disturbance is forecast for the night of Oct 9, potentially extending rain‑affected zones to north‑western parts of the state. A third system around Oct 13 could even bring snowfall to the higher hills.
Open‑Stored Grains Face Immediate Rain Hazard
Market yards where harvested cereals lie uncovered are now under heightened scrutiny. Paddy, millet, moong and other grains are currently stored in the open at several mandis.
Heavy rain would seep into the grain bulk, tarnishing its appearance and lowering its market value. Traders, market officials and farmers must act swiftly to tarp or otherwise shield the stocks before conditions worsen.
Maturing Paddy Still Awaiting Harvest
Dr. Mehrchand, Regional Director of the Rice Research Station in Kaul, reports that several long‑duration paddy varieties have not yet been cut.
Rain at this stage could trigger fungal diseases and other moisture‑related issues, 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 Endanger Sugarcane
The expected gusts also pose a risk to sugarcane growers. High wind speeds can topple standing stalks—a phenomenon known as lodging—making harvest more difficult and reducing both output and quality.
Farmers in districts forecast to face stronger breezes are advised to stay alert and consider windbreaks or other protective measures where feasible.
Millet Harvest Near Completion
Millet specialist Dr. Anil says that most of the millet crop across Haryana has already been harvested, lowering the risk of field loss.
Nevertheless, the grain remaining in open storage remains vulnerable. Rain‑induced moisture can darken kernels, downgrade their grade and fetch lower prices 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.
