Srinagar, May 2 -- Srinagar- A severe hailstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall damaged orchards and standing crops across several parts of Kashmir, including southern Kulgam and northern Kupwara and Baramulla districts, on Saturday, officials and locals said.

Farmers told KNO that the sudden spell, marked by large hailstones and intense showers, struck during the afternoon, damaging apple blossoms and tender fruit at a crucial stage of the growing season. The losses are feared to impact overall yield this year, they said.

Residents have urged the administration to carry out an immediate assessment and provide compensation to affected growers.

Meanwhile, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST...