Chandigarh: A fresh change in weather patterns has been observed across Punjab and Chandigarh, with light rain and gusty winds marking the start of a cooler spell after days of rising temperatures.
Early Thursday morning, areas like Mohali and Chandigarh witnessed light drizzle, offering temporary relief from the heat. The Meteorological Department has forecast further changes, warning of unstable weather conditions across the region over the next few days.
Officials have issued an alert for strong winds, with speeds expected to reach up to 60–70 kmph in several parts of the state. While rainfall on Thursday is likely to remain scattered, districts such as Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rupnagar and Patiala may experience light to moderate showers at isolated locations.
Despite the rain, temperatures have remained above normal. Over the past 24 hours, the average temperature in the state has risen slightly and is currently about 3.2 degrees higher than usual. Patiala recorded the highest temperature at 34°C, while Chandigarh registered 32.4°C.
Meteorologists attribute the changing conditions to an active western disturbance over the northern hills, combined with a developing cyclonic system influencing North India. While the impact is expected to remain mild initially, weather activity is likely to intensify between March 28 and March 30, bringing more widespread rainfall.
Experts have indicated that temperatures could drop by 3 to 4 degrees over the next couple of days as cloud cover and precipitation increase. The weather is expected to stabilise after March 30, with clearer conditions returning gradually.
Residents have been advised to stay cautious during strong winds and keep track of local weather updates.
