Unseasonal hailstorms, accompanied by strong winds and rain, have led to significant crop damage in various districts of Tamil Nadu. More than 850 hectares of farmland have been affected, raising concerns among farmers about potential income losses. The worst-hit areas, including Madurai, Salem, and Tenkasi districts, have witnessed damage to crops spread over approximately 810 hectares.
Agricultural fields growing paddy, cotton, sugarcane, oilseeds, and millets have suffered heavy losses, especially as many of these crops were at advanced growth stages. The timing of the weather event has distressed farmers, with several paddy fields close to harvest when the hailstorms hit. The impact has caused crop lodging, grain damage, and reduced yield prospects, potentially impacting market returns significantly.
Additionally, horticultural crops have also faced damage from gusty winds and intermittent rainfall in districts like Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Krishnagiri, Namakkal, Salem, and Tirupur. Around 40 hectares of fruit and vegetable cultivation have been affected, with visible damage such as uprooted plants and broken branches.
In response, the Tamil Nadu government has instructed officials from the Revenue and Agriculture departments to conduct joint field inspections in the affected regions. Teams have started visiting villages to assess crop conditions and collect data directly from farmers. The survey aims to determine the exact extent of losses, ensuring affected farmers receive suitable assistance.
Authorities are compiling detailed district-wise reports based on the survey findings to assist in finalizing relief measures and compensation packages. Swift action is being taken to complete the assessment promptly, enabling timely support for farmers to recover from this unforeseen setback.
