Prayagraj: The impact of Cyclone Arnab brought a sudden change in weather in Prayagraj on Thursday, with cloudy skies, cool winds and drizzle in several city localities, while rural areas received more widespread rain. The showers brought relief from the warm and sultry conditions and led to a noticeable fall in temperatures across the district.The weather system, which developed over the Bay of Bengal and crossed the north Andhra Pradesh-south Odisha coast before moving inland, influenced weather conditions over eastern Uttar Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecast rain and thunderstorms, along with lightning and gusty winds, in the region under the influence of the system.Several parts of Prayagraj witnessed light drizzle from the morning as temperatures fell by around 3-4 degrees Celsius.The city recorded a maximum temperature of 24.8 degrees C, which was 7.3 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature too was almost the same, registering just around a degree less at 23.6 degrees Celsius. The weather remained pleasant throughout the day, with the difference between the maximum and minimum temperatures narrowing to around one degree.The change was more pronounced in rural areas. Meja witnessed dark clouds and intermittent drizzle from the morning, with some areas receiving heavier showers. Its maximum temperature fell by 2.4 degrees Celsius compared with Wednesday. The weather department had forecast a fall of around four degrees in the minimum temperature and three degrees in the maximum temperature.The untimely rain, however, has raised concern among farmers as paddy crops in several areas are ready for harvesting. Strong winds and showers could cause standing crops to lodge and expose harvested grain to moisture. Farmers have been advised to harvest ready crops at the earliest, shift cut produce to safer locations and cover grain stored in the open with tarpaulin.The district administration has been asked to remain alert in view of the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds. The disaster control room has been directed to remain operational round-the-clock and make relief arrangements if required.People have been advised to avoid open areas during lightning and strong winds and stay away from trees, electricity poles and weak structures. Caution has also been advised while travelling through waterlogged roads.The influence of Arnab is expected to weaken from Friday, though light clouds and intermittent drizzle may continue. The impact of the rain and fall in temperature is likely to persist through Saturday.