Unusual weather patterns in the latter part of the monsoon season have caused significant damage to rice fields in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The combination of heavy rains and strong winds, typical during Thailand’s monsoon, led to the destruction of rice crops, impacting farmers in the Khorat Plateau region. The adverse conditions compelled farmers to swiftly harvest high-quality seeds, all the while concerned about potential diseases due to the dampness.
The weather abnormalities, transitioning from the monsoon to winter, brought about a mix of intense rainfall and powerful winds. This wreaked havoc on rice crops in the Khorat Plateau, especially in areas like Khok Sung, Kham Thale So, and Khon Buri. The Ban Bueng Phatthana region within the Buri subdistrict suffered the most, witnessing extensive damage across numerous plots spanning hundreds of acres.
Some farmers had to expedite their harvesting despite ongoing rainfall that moistened the crops. The wet conditions reduced the grains’ market value, but leaving them exposed risked further damage, potential rot, and disease. The flattened crops also increased the risk of squashed grains, further impacting market prices.
Sonan Aebphakwaen, one of the affected farmers, shared the recent challenges brought by heavy rainfall and winds. These weather conditions severely affected ready-to-harvest rice crops, knocking them down and potentially reducing yields. He rushed to salvage undamaged grains for the next planting season. Urgency prevailed to harvest quickly and avoid issues stemming from high humidity, fungi, and diseases. Despite the adversity, Sonan remained hopeful for a favorable rice price this year, considering the current rate of 8 to 9 baht per kilogram for husked rice.
