Impact of Excess Pre-Monsoon Rains on Assam's Summer Crops

Excessive pre-monsoon rainfall in Assam is causing significant damage to summer crops, particularly vegetables and maize. Agricultural experts have issued warnings and advisories to farmers to manage the adverse effects of the weather. Reports indicate that potato crops are also suffering during harvesting. While the rains are detrimental to many crops, tea cultivation appears to be thriving. The Indian Meteorological Department has advised farmers to take precautions, including proper drainage and timely harvesting, to minimize losses. With Assam experiencing a 56% increase in rainfall this season, the situation remains critical as forecasts predict continued rain and thunderstorms.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 09:19 IST

Adverse Effects of Heavy Rains on Agriculture

Farmers sowing paddy somewhere in Nagaon, Assam. (Photo: @CGMeifangZhang/X)

Guwahati, April 22: Unusually high pre-monsoon rainfall is negatively impacting summer crops, especially vegetables and field crops like maize, leading to warnings from agricultural authorities.

Representatives from Assam Agricultural University reported significant damage to vegetable and maize crops in various regions due to excessive moisture and rainfall.

Dr. Prasanta Neog from the Department of Agricultural Meteorology at Biswantah College of Agriculture noted that potato crops are suffering damage during the harvesting phase in several areas.

“This season's pre-monsoon rains have been extraordinary, particularly in March. Maize crops in regions such as Kharupetia and Gohpur are experiencing waterlogging during their critical growth phase. Additionally, summer vegetables are struggling due to the rain and cloudy conditions, which hinder fruit development,” Dr. Neog stated, indicating a potential decline in crop yields.

On a positive note, he mentioned that the weather conditions are favorable for tea cultivation.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued agricultural advisories regarding the anticipated heavy rainfall in Arunachal Pradesh, urging farmers to carefully harvest crops like cabbage, peas, mustard, late-maturing paddy varieties, and potatoes, and to store them in safe locations.

Farmers are also advised to establish adequate drainage systems in rice, maize, and other crop fields, as well as in orchards.

In Assam and Meghalaya, farmers should take steps to remove excess rainwater from their fields and provide mechanical support to tall or weak crops using stakes or bamboo to prevent damage.

Additionally, farmers are encouraged to delay irrigation and fertilizer application for standing crops and to harvest mature crops promptly to mitigate the effects of heavy rainfall.

So far, Assam has recorded a 56% increase in rainfall during this pre-monsoon season, with 166.6 mm of rain in March compared to the normal 72.6 mm, marking a 129% excess.

March also saw seven days of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in Assam.

Forecasts suggest that rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to persist until the end of the month, with reports of four fatalities due to lightning and two from storms during this season in the state.