Haryana Weather Alert: IMD Warns of Rain, Hailstorm and Gusty Winds on October 30

Haryana is set for unsettled weather on October 30, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting light to moderate rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across the state, and hail at isolated places. The forecast, issued by the IMD’s Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, covers October 29 to 31 under the influence of western disturbances. Forecasters say a cyclonic circulation has formed over Jammu and adjoining areas under the influence of a western disturbance, while a second western disturbance is active in the middle tropospheric levels. Together, the two systems are expected to increase rainfall, thunderstorm activity and gusty winds across the region. In Haryana, light to moderate rainfall is expected at several places on October 29 and 30, with isolated showers likely on October 31. Chandigarh is also expected to receive light to moderate rainfall at isolated places on October 29 and 30. Hailstorms are likely at isolated places in Punjab and Haryana on October 29 and 30. The weather department has warned of strong, gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 60 kmph and has issued an advisory for residents and farmers to take precautions. Standing crops in the fields and harvested produce lying in mandis or in the open are at risk from wind, rain and hail, while strong gusts may snap tree branches, damage weak structures and disrupt electricity and water supply. Slippery roads, waterlogging and poor visibility are also likely to slow traffic. Farmers have been asked to move harvested crops lying in the open to safe, dry places without delay. With rain and storms in the forecast, they should also postpone irrigation and the spraying of fertilisers and pesticides for now, and follow the detailed guidelines issued by the agriculture department. Residents are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms and lightning, avoid sheltering under trees, and keep away from weak structures and loose objects during gusty winds. The change in weather has already brought a slight chill to mornings across the region, with cloudy skies and intermittent drizzle reported at several places since October 29.