PRAYAGRAJ, Oct. 6 -- After a day of scorching heat and bright sunshine, the weather changed suddenly on Monday evening as strong westerly winds, heavy rain and hail lashed several parts of the Pratapgarh district. The sky had remained clear since morning, but clouds began appearing around 5.30 pm. Around 6 pm, strong winds swept through the area, followed by heavy rain. Hail was also reported at several places, with the Patti area witnessing the most intense hailstorm. However, the hailstorm and gusty winds also damaged standing crops, adding to farmers' concerns. District Agriculture Officer Ashok Kumar said farmers with crop insurance whose crops were damaged can register complaints on the toll-free number 14417 or mobile number 7065514447. htc...