Agriculture Ministry Warns Farmers to Stock Water as Monsoon Approaches Amid Unpredictable Weather

The Department of Agricultural Extension is urging farmers to develop solid planting plans and secure adequate water supplies as erratic weather patterns—including scattered rainfall and summer storms—threaten pest outbreaks. Agriculture Ministry Director-General Anchalee Suwichittananth stated that current climate volatility makes it difficult to predict scattered rainfall, flash floods, summer storms, extreme heat, and crop pest outbreaks, all of which directly impact agriculture. Managing agricultural disasters requires comprehensive approaches including preparation, risk reduction, monitoring, recovery, and building farmer resilience for sustainable adaptation.

Farmers should implement three key practices: First, regularly monitor weather forecasts and inspect fields to manage crops and combat agricultural pests promptly. Second, prepare water management and drainage systems to prevent crop water shortage during June-July, when scattered rainfall is expected and could damage yields and plant growth at all stages. Third, maintain plants through proper pruning to preserve moisture, reduce water loss during dry periods, and prevent damage from heavy rain or strong winds—potentially using stakes for support or harvesting gradually based on weather conditions.

Given unpredictable weather that could damage crops, farmers are encouraged to prepare biocontrol products like trichoderma fungi, beauveria fungi, predatory mites, parasitic wasps, and natural enemies. Farmers should learn proper application methods and be ready to prevent pest and disease outbreaks, protecting yields and agricultural areas overall. Farmers can contact their local district agricultural offices for additional assistance and guidance on preventing agricultural disasters.