A severe hailstorm in Nepal’s Parbat district has caused significant damage to paddy crops, resulting in heavy economic losses for farmers. Nearly 40% of the paddy, which had been harvested and left to dry in fields, was destroyed across several areas, including Jukekhola, Chinnekhola, Adhikariphant, Malyangdi, Salghari, and Argasel.
Nearly 40% of the paddy crop cut down and laid to dry on the fields was damaged by the hailstone. The plains of Jukekhola, Chinnekhola, Adhikariphant, Malyangdi, Salghari, Argasel and others incurred huge losses. Parbat district witnessed similar crop damage last year. An increase in rice production was expected but the harvest time disaster dampened the hope.
According to Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, there will be effects of westerlies and local wind in Nepal. The Province of Bagmati, Madhesh and some regions of Karnali may receive light rain with thunderstorms.
-Sweta Singh (Kathmandu)