Intense Western Disturbance Looming: PAU Urgent Advisory for Punjab Growers

According to University officials, the disturbance would likely trigger gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–60 kmph, hailstorms with the potential for significant crop damage. File Photo.

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has issued an urgent advisory to the state's farming community following a forecast of an intense Western Disturbance.

The weather conditions are expected to impact the region starting late Wednesday, bringing significant rainfall, including a predicted 0.83 mm on January 22 and a heavy downpour of 11.66 mm on the morning of January 23.

According to University officials, the disturbance would likely trigger gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–60 kmph, hailstorms with the potential for significant crop damage, and atmospheric hazards such as thunderstorms and frequent lightning strikes.

PAU experts have advised farmers to take the following precautions:

Temporarily halt routine practices, including irrigation, pesticide spraying, and fertilizer application, until the weather stabilizes to prevent economic loss and ensure chemical efficiency.
Harvest marketable fruits and vegetables before the rain begins.
Clear drainage systems to prevent water stagnation, which can lead to root rot.
Use hailnets for high value crops.
Use government-backed mobile applications like Meghdoot, Mausam, and Sachet for localized, timely weather updates and specific advisories to navigate these volatile conditions,

Source: Times of India