A heavy hailstorm, accompanied by rainfall and strong winds, swept across several areas of Meghalaya, turning large areas a picturesque white but also causing damage to crops, road traffic buildup and a sharp drop in temperature.
The storm lasted for a couple of hours in most places, with hailstones as large as marbles pelting down and covering the ground in thick layers of ice.
The Indian Meteorological Department had predicted bad weather today, though conditions tomorrow are expected to be clearer.
Places affected included Nongsawing, Mawreng, Laitpynter, Marbisu and Kreit, as well as Umroi and Umiam in Ri-Bhoi. Mawlai also bore the brunt of the storm, especially Mawiong, Mawtawar and Umrynjah.
Rain and hailstorms led to the collapse of electric poles and trees in various parts of Mawlai. Cars were backed up on the road as they were forced to move with caution and at lower speeds than usual.
Meanwhile, a large number of farmers in the Umroi region expressed deep concern after the hailstorm damaged agricultural produce.
According to reports, the hailstorm hit abruptly around 3pm in the Umroi and Umiam areas, covering the fields with white hailstones.
It was also reported that houses with weaker roofing structures, especially those covered with tin sheets, might have suffered damage due to the force of the hailstones. Farmers fear that the storm could severely impact their crops, particularly since this is a crucial harvesting period when they anticipate reaping the benefits of their agricultural efforts.
Crops grown in the areas at this time include cabbage, carrots, lettuce, peas, mustard and other seasonal vegetables, all of which are now at risk due to the hailstorm’s destructive impact.
