Farmers Face Double Blow from Hailstorms in Banaskantha District

Farmers in Banaskantha District, Gujarat, are facing a tough time. In May, they have been hit by hailstorms for the second time. Heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds and lightning, surprised many on Thursday night. The Weather Department had forecast light to moderate rain for three days. But the unexpected storms caused widespread damage, especially to crops. The district has been experiencing extreme heat for days, with temperatures soaring. The sudden change in weather has left many farmers worried about their harvests. The most affected areas include Vadgam, Palanpur, Amirgarh, and Disa. Reports indicate that rainwater has flooded many roads, making travel difficult. Many farmers are now anxious about the future of their crops. The loss from this second hailstorm could be significant. Earlier in the month, on May 6, a similar storm caused damage to standing crops. Farmers had just begun to recover when the second storm hit on May 28. The crops that were ready for harvest are now at risk. Farmers rely heavily on their crops for income. Therefore, the repeated storms have left them in a state of despair. The local government has promised to assess the damage and provide assistance. However, farmers are worried about their immediate needs. They are calling for urgent support to help them recover. While the rain has brought some relief from the heat, it has also led to crop destruction. The Weather Department has warned that the chances of more rain in the coming days are low. This news has added to the farmers’ concerns. As the district grapples with these challenges, the resilience of farmers will be tested. Community support will be vital in helping them during this difficult period. The situation highlights the impact of changing weather patterns on agriculture in Gujarat. Farmers hope for better weather in the coming months. They are also advocating for more robust measures to protect their crops in the future. Rainfall in the region is crucial for agriculture, but it must come at the right time and intensity. The recent storms have shown how unpredictable nature can be. For now, farmers in Banaskantha must face the aftermath and seek ways to recover from this double setback.