Farmers in Chittoor and Annamayya face cyclone threat after much-needed rain

Recent downpours have ended a long dry spell for farmers in Chittoor and Annamayya, boosting soil moisture and helping plans for the rabi season. However, a new depression in the Bay of Bengal is expected to turn into a full-fledged cyclonic storm by October 26, with the worst impact likely hitting around October 27.

Rainfall Deficits

Official records show that between June 1 and October 22, Chittoor recorded 373.1 mm against its usual 568 mm, showing a deficit of 34.3 per cent. Annamayya recorded 231.8 mm against a normal 491.4 mm, leaving a steep shortfall of 52.8 per cent. While recent rains brought relief, they have not fully erased months of missing moisture.

Crop Impacts

Local farming includes groundnut, paddy, pulses, vegetables, and sugarcane, alongside mango orchards. A senior official from the Chittoor Agriculture department noted that while current moisture helps recharge wells and start rabi groundnut sowing, heavy downpours risk waterlogging fields and ruining harvested crops. Special response teams have been mobilised to guide farmers, while tomato farmers in Madanapalle face risks of plant diseases and transport hurdles.

Context

Cyclonic storms frequently form in the Bay of Bengal during the post-monsoon season, often bringing heavy rain to southern and eastern parts of India. Agriculture in regions like Rayalaseema depends heavily on timely seasonal rainfall and groundwater levels to sustain crops through dry spells.