Introduction

• The term Agrometeology is basically abbreviated of two words- agriculture and meteorology & is also referred to as Agroclimatology
• Meteorology is generally defined as a branch of physics that deals with the physical processes in the lower atmosphere that produces weather and climate. The physical processes in the atmosphere are influenced by solar radiation, temperature, humidity, wind movement, atmospheric pressure, precipitation and soil moisture or by atmospheric elements which are responsible for changing the state of atmosphere.
• Meteorology is the scientific study of atmosphere, especially its pattern of climate and weather.

Importance of Agrometeorology

• Helps in planning cropping patterns/systems.
• Selecting of sowing dates for optimum crop yield.
• For cost effective ploughing, harrowing, weeding etc.
• Reducing losses of applied chemicals and fertilizers; helps to avoid fertilizer and chemical sprays when rain is forecast
• Judicious irrigation to crops.
• Efficient harvesting of all crops.
• Reducing or eliminating outbreak of pests and diseases.
• Efficient management of soils, which are formed out of weather action.
• Managing weather abnormalities like cyclones, heavy rainfall, floods, drought etc., achieved by weather forecasting.
• Mitigation measures such as shelterbelts against cold and heat waves, effective environmental protection. etc.
• Avoiding or minimizing losses due to forest fires.