Chhattisgarh is likely to receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall at several places on October 28 and 29 as the impact of Cyclone Arnab over the Bay of Bengal continues. As a precautionary measure, the district administration has instructed all government and private schools, colleges and other educational institutions in Raipur to remain closed on Thursday.
The order was issued by Raipur Collector Gaurav Singh, the statement said.
According to a weather advisory issued by the Agrometeorology Department of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, moderate rainfall of 15 to 64 millimetres is likely at most places on October 28. Some areas may receive 64 to 115 millimetres of rain, while one or two places could experience even higher rainfall.
Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Mahasamund, Raipur, Durg, Balod, Dhamtari, Kanker, Narayanpur, Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada and Sukma are among the districts where heavy to extremely heavy rainfall has been forecast on Wednesday.
On October 29, heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in Bastar, Balrampur-Ramanujganj, Surajpur, Koriya and Korba districts. Several other districts, including Raipur, Durg, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Bilaspur and Raigarh, may receive light to moderate rainfall.
According to the advisory issued by the state administration, the weather system is likely to affect the state through November 1.
The Agricultural University has advised farmers to harvest mature paddy, maize and oilseed crops at the earliest and move the harvested produce to safe and dry locations. Farmers have also been asked to ensure proper drainage in fields to prevent waterlogging and postpone the sowing of rabi crops such as wheat, gram and lentils.
Besides, they have been advised not to spray pesticides or weedicides until the weather clears.
The university has also asked vegetable and horticulture farmers to harvest mature produce and support creeper crops such as bitter gourd and bottle gourd, which could be damaged by strong winds. Banana plants, particularly those carrying fruit, should also be supported appropriately.
Livestock owners have been advised to keep animals in dry, safe and elevated areas and avoid sheltering them under trees during strong winds and lightning. They have also been advised to ensure adequate stocks of fodder and arrangements for drinking water.