Rain Alert for Nine States Due to Cyclone 'Arnab'

New Delhi. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across nine states in the country due to the impact of the cyclonic storm 'Arnab'. These states include Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh (eastern region), and the Union Territory of Puducherry.

In these states, the paddy crop is currently at a critical stage of development, with the grain-filling process already underway. Harvesting is expected to begin within the next month. A severe storm accompanied by heavy rainfall could damage the crop; flowers and developing grains may fall off, and the plants themselves could be flattened by strong gusts of wind.

Cyclone 'Arnab' is likely to have a significant impact on Kharif crops across these regions. In areas experiencing only moderate winds and normal rainfall, the paddy crop might actually benefit. It is worth noting that the states most likely to be affected are not among the top producers of pulses or oilseeds.

However, some of these states are significant producers of cotton, while others have substantial sugarcane cultivation. West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh are among the leading producers of paddy.