Chhattisgarh Weather Alert: Extremely Heavy Rain Likely on October 28–29, Farmers Told to Halt Harvesting

Raipur | Correspondent : Chhattisgarh is likely to witness a spell of heavy rainfall over the next few days as a developing cyclonic system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to influence weather conditions across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rain from October 27, with extremely heavy rainfall possible at isolated places on October 28 and 29. Strong winds, thunderstorms and lightning could add to the challenges, particularly in parts of southern Chhattisgarh.

According to the weather forecast issued on October 26, conditions are expected to remain comparatively dry on Monday before rainfall activity begins to intensify from Tuesday. The Bastar division could experience strong winds reaching speeds of around 60 kmph, according to local weather reports. The situation has raised concerns for farmers, especially those preparing to harvest paddy and other crops.

In view of the expected rainfall, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (Indira Gandhi Agricultural University) in Raipur has issued a weather-based advisory for farmers, urging them to suspend harvesting activities for the next two to four days. Farmers have been advised to take particular care of mature paddy and other crops that could suffer damage from heavy rain, strong winds and waterlogging.

Those who have already harvested their crops have been advised to move the produce to safe, covered storage facilities to prevent it from getting wet. Excess moisture can affect grain quality and increase post-harvest losses. Farmers have also been asked to clear drainage channels and ensure that rainwater can flow out of their fields, reducing the risk of waterlogging and damage to standing crops.

The advisory is also relevant to vegetable growers and horticultural farmers, whose crops could be vulnerable to strong winds and prolonged rainfall. Farmers have been advised to postpone the spraying of pesticides and other agricultural chemicals during wet weather and to monitor their fields for signs of water damage and disease after the rain subsides. Livestock owners should also arrange dry, sheltered spaces for their animals and avoid leaving them in exposed areas during thunderstorms.

The anticipated weather change could disrupt agricultural operations across parts of the state at a time when farmers are preparing for the paddy harvest. Timely precautions, particularly the safe storage of harvested produce and proper field drainage, will be important in minimising potential losses.

Residents have also been advised to remain alert during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees and stay away from flooded roads. Farmers working in open fields should suspend outdoor activities during lightning and seek safe shelter.

The IMD's forecast may change depending on the movement and intensity of the weather system. Farmers and residents are therefore advised to follow the latest district-level warnings and updates issued by the Meteorological Centre, Raipur, and Indira Gandhi Agricultural University.