In Purvanchal’s ten districts including Banaras, rainfall measuring between 5 to 7 millimeters was recorded from midnight to 9 a.m. on Wednesday. This brought the minimum temperature up to 20.8 degrees Celsius, which is 3 degrees higher than normal. However, wind speeds of 16 to 24 km/h during this period negatively impacted the ripened paddy crop. The harvested crops laid out for threshing got wet, causing disruption in threshing activities.
According to the Agriculture Department, Sonbhadra district witnessed the highest damage, with an estimated 20% of paddy crops destroyed, while other districts reported damage ranging from 5% to 15%. Weather expert Prof. Manoj Kumar Srivastava from BHU explained that the cyclone Montha weakened upon reaching Chhattisgarh and its effects are now limited to clouds and drizzles. Heavy rainfall is not expected, but light and sporadic showers may continue. From Saturday onwards, clearer skies and improved weather are forecasted.
This unexpected rainfall has caused significant anxiety among farmers, especially those who were ready to harvest their crops. The loss of paddy will not only impact the financial situation of the farmers but also raise concerns about food security in the region. Farmer organizations have urged the government to take immediate steps to assist affected farmers.
Meanwhile, in Varanasi, the maximum temperature was recorded at 23.8°C, about 5.1 degrees below normal, and the minimum temperature at 20.8°C, three degrees below normal. Humidity levels fluctuated between 91% and 96%. The meteorological department has warned that cloud cover and light rain may continue on November 1, signaling ongoing weather variability.
