Chandigarh: Punjab and Chandigarh are likely to witness another spell of unstable weather on Thursday, with the Meteorological Department issuing a yellow alert for seven districts amid warnings of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Weather experts have also cautioned that heatwave conditions may return across several parts of the state from May 17 onward as temperatures begin to climb steadily.
According to the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, districts including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Fazilka, Muktsar, Bathinda and Mansa could receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour.
The alert follows strong dust storms and scattered rain that swept through several parts of Punjab on Wednesday evening, disrupting normal life and causing minor damage in some localities. Residents reported sudden gusty winds, reduced visibility and brief showers across multiple urban and rural pockets.
Meteorologists said atmospheric conditions remain unstable due to cyclonic circulation over North India, while a fresh western disturbance is expected to influence weather patterns from May 15. This system could trigger cloud cover, isolated showers and stronger winds over parts of northwest India in the coming days.
At the same time, weather agencies noted favourable developments for the further advance of the southwest monsoon over southern regions around May 16, though its impact on Punjab will take longer to materialise.
Despite isolated relief from rain, daytime temperatures have again moved upward. Faridkot recorded the highest temperature in the state at 43.7 degrees Celsius, while Bathinda remained close behind at 43.4 degrees. Abohar crossed the 40-degree mark at 40.7 degrees, while several other districts also reported sharp increases.
Ludhiana recorded 38.8 degrees, Patiala 39 degrees, Chandigarh 38.6 degrees and Amritsar 38.5 degrees, indicating a steady return of summer intensity after brief fluctuations earlier this week.
The weather department has forecast that after scattered rainfall activity subsides, dry conditions will dominate much of Punjab over the next few days. Maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 4 to 6 degrees over the coming week, increasing the likelihood of heatwave conditions between May 17 and May 19 in vulnerable districts.
Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during storm activity and prepare for rising heat by staying hydrated and avoiding unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours.
