Strong winds and hailstorms have damaged crops across parts of the Tarai, with farmers in Sarlahi and Sunsari reporting significant losses just weeks before harvest.
In Sarlahi, powerful winds swept through several areas on Monday evening, flattening maize crops that were nearing maturity. Farmers said the storm lasted only a few minutes but caused widespread destruction, particularly to hybrid maize, which has become a key source of income in the district. Much of the crop was at the tasselling and ear formation stage, making it especially vulnerable.
Local authorities confirmed that damage reports have been received from multiple municipalities, including Bagmati and Barahathawa. Officials said detailed assessments are underway. Around 12,500 hectares of land in Sarlahi are under hybrid maize cultivation.
The storm also disrupted electricity and internet services, with outages reported in rural areas. Several houses suffered damage, particularly roofs made of tiles and corrugated sheets.
In neighbouring Sunsari, a hailstorm accompanied by strong winds on Monday night caused further damage to maize, wheat, lentil, and vegetable crops. Farmers in southern areas, including Inaruwa, said the storm extended earlier damage caused by hail in the northern parts of the district.
Large areas of farmland have been affected, with some farmers reporting total crop losses. In parts of Inaruwa alone, nearly 1,000 bighas of maize and wheat are estimated to have been damaged.
Agriculture officials said maize grown on a majority of arable land in the area has been hit hardest, particularly crops at sensitive growth stages. Wheat and vegetable crops have also suffered.
Authorities said the full extent of the losses is still being assessed as farmers brace for the economic impact.