New Delhi: Unseasonal rain lashed several parts of the national capital overnight on Saturday, bringing thunderstorms and hail across the NCR region. The sudden weather change followed a dusty Friday in New Delhi, where a thick layer of dust reduced surface visibility during the morning.
The unseasonal rain has caused severe damage to Rabi crops, particularly wheat, in northern India. Significant losses have been reported in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi, raising concerns among farmers. Meteorologists have attributed the unexpected showers and hail to an active western disturbance in the region.
A farmer from Haryana told ANI, “The crop has been entirely damaged. We demand compensation from the government. Conditions are worse in the entire village; everything has been destroyed.” The devastation highlights the impact of unseasonal rain on the livelihoods of cultivators across northern India.
Heavy Hail and Crop Damage in Haryana as Unseasonal Rain Hits Bhiwani, Hisar, Rohtak, and Sonipat
In Haryana, heavy hailstorms were reported in Bhiwani, Hisar, Rohtak, and Sonipat districts. Preliminary assessments indicate that over 50 percent of mustard, wheat, and other Rabi crops have been damaged due to the unseasonal rain. Farmers have been advised to store harvested crops safely and postpone irrigation and pesticide spraying until weather conditions improve.
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Temperatures are expected to rise after April 6, providing some relief from the cold spell. However, moderate to heavy rain and hail are forecast in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and western Uttar Pradesh over the coming days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph in the national capital.
Officials have urged farmers to document crop losses and requested immediate relief measures to reduce the impact of unseasonal rain. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure timely assistance where required.
The unseasonal rain serves as a reminder of northern India’s vulnerability to unpredictable weather patterns, emphasizing the need for proactive measures and government support for affected farmers.