Chandigarh: Residents across Punjab and Chandigarh are experiencing a welcome break from rising temperatures, as recent weather activity has kept conditions noticeably cooler than usual. However, the Meteorological Department has issued a caution for the day, forecasting gusty winds and scattered rain in several districts.
According to the India Meteorological Department, a ‘Yellow Alert’ remains in place for today, with thunderstorms, lightning, and winds reaching speeds of 30–40 km/h expected in parts of the region. Districts likely to be affected include Pathankot, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala, and Mohali, among others.
Despite only marginal rainfall in the past 24 hours, temperatures across the state have stayed significantly below seasonal averages—by as much as 6 degrees in some areas. Most cities recorded maximum temperatures between 30°C and 34°C, with no location crossing the 35°C mark. The highest reading was observed near the Bhakra region in Rupnagar district.
Weather experts indicate that this relatively cool phase is being influenced by an active western disturbance over the northern hills, along with atmospheric circulations affecting surrounding regions. Cloud cover has persisted over parts of Punjab, increasing the chances of brief showers through the day.
From May 7 onwards, however, conditions are expected to stabilise. The department has forecast largely dry weather for the next three days, accompanied by a gradual rise in temperatures due to the influence of dry westerly winds across north India.
Officials also noted that while light rain may occur in isolated pockets over the next 24–48 hours, no major weather warnings have been issued beyond today. As the region transitions into a drier phase, temperatures are likely to climb steadily.
With the monsoon season still a few weeks away, meteorologists are closely tracking broader climatic patterns, including possible delays linked to developing conditions over the Arabian Sea. For now, the current spell continues to offer temporary relief from the early summer heat.
