Hailstorm and rain benefit crops in Shivamogga district

Shivamogga district experienced a hailstorm and heavy rain on Thursday evening. Various villages, particularly in Thagarthi gram panchayat, were affected, while Gowthamapura saw only light showers. Earlier in the day, the temperature was forecasted to reach 35.8 degrees Celsius, but thunderstorms caused it to drop significantly. Farmers in the area, like Nagappa from Kudigere village, had to work in challenging weather conditions. He noted that many workers were struggling with the heat before the rain started. The rainfall lasted for over an hour, bringing relief to the farmers. In Sagar taluk, where ginger is a key crop, the rain has improved the outlook for cultivation. Farmers were concerned about the extreme heat, but the unexpected rain has raised hopes, especially for crops like maize that need sufficient water now. Shivamogga city and nearby regions saw a big decrease in temperature as the rain continued. Experts predict more rain in the coming days across the district.