Squall raises concern among agri experts

The squall experienced during the early morning and evening hours on Friday has raised concerns among agriculture experts, who had been anticipating a bumper crop this season.

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The Meteorological Department categorised it as a moderate thunderstorm with 50-60 kmph wind speed. The spell continued for nearly three hours, causing waterlogging in cities.

According to Director (Agriculture) Jaswant Singh, alerts were issued and farmers instructed not to irrigate their fields. The condition worsened this evening. Monitoring teams would be deployed to assess the situation, he added.

He said there were reports of hailstorm and heavy rainfall in some parts of the region. The data shared by the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre showed rain was well-distributed during February. Except for the last few days, the state witnessed deficit rainfall during the month with above-average temperature.

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) experts said except of the squall at isolated places, overcast conditions, coupled with rainfall and dip in temperature, are favourable for crops.

Patiala Chief Agriculture Officer Jaswinder Singh said no crop damage had been reported so far. “Had a similar situation occurred during the second week of March and thereafter, it could have caused much damage. However, we are awaiting reports from the field staff,” he added.

Above-normal temperature during January and early February had raised concerns among wheat growers. According to experts, a sudden uptick in temperature could lead to thinning of wheat grain, impacting the yield.

“Wheat crop is sensitive to high temperature, especially during flowering and grain-filling stages. Heat stress can lead to reduced grain size, besides lowering the overall yield. High temperature can cause wheat crop to mature early, thereby adversely affecting the grain quality and crop yield,” said Hardeep Sabhikhi Krishi from the Vigyan Kendra, Patiala.

PAU’s Principal Meteorologist Dr KK Gill said rain was required to end the prolonged dry spell. “Only 7 mm rainfall was reported in January against average rainfall of 28 mm. February also remained relatively dry, except for the last couple of days when the region received its quota of rainfall,” Gill said.