Tue Oct 28 01:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Unseasonal Rains Lash Kanpur Due to “Montha” Cyclone, Farmers Fear Crop Damage
Kanpur: An unexpected spell of unseasonal rain hit Kanpur on Monday, triggered by the effects of the “Montha” cyclone system in the Bay of Bengal. The sudden change in weather has raised concerns among meteorologists and agricultural experts, who warn of potential negative impacts on crops and daily life.
The downpour, which started with a drizzle in the afternoon and intensified with gusty winds by evening, recorded 3.1 mm of rainfall in Kakadeo and 2.9 mm in Civil Lines till 9 pm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts further rainfall of 15-20 mm in Kanpur and surrounding areas, potentially damaging crops ready for harvest and newly sown seeds.
“The unseasonal rains pose a significant threat to standing Kharif crops, especially paddy, which is yet to be fully harvested,” said Dr. R.K. Yadav, an agricultural scientist at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology. “The rainfall could also delay the sowing of wheat and potato crops due to increased moisture levels in the fields, potentially leading to seed decay.”
While the rain brought some relief from the heat, causing a drop in temperature, experts warn that the adverse effects on agriculture could outweigh the benefits. The maximum temperature recorded was 27.4 degrees Celsius, 5.7 degrees below normal, while the minimum temperature was 19 degrees Celsius, 2.6 degrees above normal.
Dr. S.N. Sunil Pandey, a weather expert, attributed the sudden change in weather to the active cyclonic systems in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal (“Montha” cyclone), which have significantly impacted the region. The average wind speed, previously less than 1 kmph, increased to 1.7 kmph on Monday, indicating the strong influence of the weather systems.
The IMD is closely monitoring the situation and has advised farmers to take necessary precautions to minimize crop damage. The authorities are also prepared to address any potential disruptions to daily life caused by the unseasonal rainfall.
First Piper 