Expert Advisory Details

Expected Rainfall in Punjab on 22nd and 23rd January

With the onset of a western cyclone from January 21, the effects of rains are being felt across Punjab on January 22-23. The weather is expected to be fairly clear next week.

• Prolonged fog is causing discoloration of wheat leaves but this is a temporary effect. As the weather clears and the sunny weather starts, the plants will recover.
• The yellowing of wheat leaf is caused by prolonged cold and foggy weather and is not caused by any disease or nutrient deficiency. Farmers are advised not to spray any kind of pesticide or nutrient solution on the plants unnecessarily. As the weather improves, the color of the wheat leaves will turn normal automatically.
• Apart from this, cold is beneficial for wheat to grow.
• Cloudy and foggy weather is also affecting vegetables, fruits and flowering plants. Especially in nurseries the signs of stunted growth and withering there are being spotted.
• After 2-3 more days of similar weather, the weather will be clear till next week, so there is no need to worry but keep on surveying to prevent yellow rust in wheat. When signs appear in the fields, spray with fungicides as required.

Things to keep in mind for the general public as well

• Wear warm woollen clothes to protect from the cold, use loose clothing and prefer lightweight multi-layered clothing.
• Wear several layers of light weight instead of heavy cloth.
• Eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. Drink plenty of hot liquids.
• Avoid or limit outdoor activities.
• Keep clothes dry, change immediately when wet. Wear waterproof shoes.
• Maintain ventilation when using heaters to prevent inhalation of toxic fumes.