In India's Nashik district, unseasonal rains have impacted agricultural activities, affecting over 14,000 farmers across 3,454 hectares. The primary crops impacted include mangoes, onions, and various vegetables. The weather pattern, marked by a brief pause followed by renewed rainfall, has led to growing concerns among local growers.
On May 12, the return of rains in Nashik taluka and neighboring areas exacerbated fears of increased crop losses. Before this, early May's rising temperatures had already started causing issues, but the abrupt transition to rainy and cloudy conditions has resulted in unexpected agricultural challenges. Farmers report a noticeable drop in temperatures, unusual for May.
Onion crops have been particularly affected, with stormy winds uprooting plants, leading to the bulbs being exposed before harvest. Mangoes and other vegetables are also experiencing adverse effects due to waterlogging and strong winds.
According to estimates, 14,613 farmers from 600 villages have been impacted. The talukas of Peth and Surgana are among the most affected. Peth taluka has seen damage across 1,257 hectares, impacting 4,819 farmers, while Surgana taluka reports damage over 594 hectares, affecting 4,511 farmers. Satana taluka has recorded the highest onion crop losses.
Five days prior, damage was reported on approximately 2,000 hectares.
Source: Lokmat Times