Libra rains prove destructive for agriculture

Libra rains are proving destructive in Kerala. The North East Monsoon starts from early October and ends in December end.

Kerala received 65 cms of rain in 2010, in contrast to the 42 cms received in 2009. This is adverse for Agriculture. Kerala has received the maximum Libra rains this year.
Maximum rains have been reported in Trichur Dist. It is 102% more than the average and Cannanore is the nearest district which has received good amount of rainfall.

The depression formed in the Bay of Bengal, along with whirlwinds are the causes for the intensity of the Libra Monsoon or Thula Varsham, says the Trivandrum Meteorological Dept.

In North Kerala, heavy rains have triggered floods and it has hurt the agricultural sector. More than 15000 acres have been indundated. These rains will hurt mangoes and cashewnut production. Rubber also is adversely affected. Tapping has become difficult due to heavy rains. Floods are creating havoc in Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala. Even in the summer, vegetable production will be affected.

On the positive side, these rains will reduce the intensity of the draught in the coming summer months of Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.