Chandigarh: Changing weather conditions continued to influence several parts of Punjab on Thursday, with light rainfall reported in some districts and strong winds sweeping through others. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of thunderstorms, lightning and scattered rainfall across large parts of the state over the next two days as atmospheric activity remains favourable for unstable weather.
Officials at the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh have issued a yellow alert for multiple districts, advising residents to remain cautious during periods of strong winds and thunderstorm activity. Northern and central regions of Punjab are likely to witness intermittent showers accompanied by gusty winds and occasional lightning.
While cloud cover and rainfall have brought temporary relief in a few areas, temperatures remain relatively high across the state. Bathinda continued to record some of the highest readings, reflecting the persistence of summer heat despite recent weather disturbances.
Weather experts attribute the current conditions to a combination of a western disturbance moving across northern India and a cyclonic circulation influencing neighbouring regions. These systems are expected to generate moisture and instability, increasing the likelihood of rain-bearing clouds over Punjab during the coming days.
Rainfall activity, though uneven, has picked up recently after a prolonged dry spell. Several districts have received only limited precipitation this month, leaving the state with a seasonal rainfall shortfall compared to normal levels. Meteorologists believe the latest spell could help narrow that deficit if showers become more widespread.
Meanwhile, power consumption in Punjab remains elevated as residents continue to rely heavily on cooling appliances. Electricity demand has remained above seasonal averages despite occasional weather-related relief.
Forecasters said conditions appear increasingly favourable for the arrival of the southwest monsoon in the region before the end of June. Although an official onset date has not yet been announced, weather models indicate that monsoon currents are gradually advancing northward.
The IMD has advised farmers, commuters and residents in vulnerable areas to monitor weather updates closely, particularly during periods of intense wind or lightning. Authorities have also urged people to avoid sheltering under trees and to exercise caution while travelling during thunderstorms.
With additional rain spells expected over the next few days, weather officials anticipate a modest rise and fall in temperatures before more stable monsoon conditions begin to take shape across Punjab.
