BHUBANESWAR: The Agriculture Department on Saturday asked farmers to take precautionary measures as heavy rainfall is expected over coastal and interior parts of the State during November 16 and 18.A low pressure, which is likely to form around November 14 will intensify into a depression and may induce heavy rains over many parts of the State, it said.
During November 13-15, light showers are expected over coastal districts whereas heavy spells may occur during the November 16-18 period.Basing on an advisory by Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), the Department asked the farmers to shift the harvested paddy to a safer place. Ripe paddy should be harvested and moved to safety.
The mandis must also be protected. It also issued guidelines on measures to contain pest attack in paddy and other crops.Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department said on Saturday the low pressure will form over south west Bay of Bengal whereas a cyclonic circulation is already present over south east bay.