Chandigarh: A change in weather brought brief relief from the scorching heat across parts of Punjab on Sunday morning, as light showers accompanied by strong winds were reported from Jalandhar and parts of Ludhiana. The sudden spell of rain marked the beginning of changing weather conditions, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting increased rainfall activity in the coming days.
According to the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds were expected in several districts during the morning hours, prompting officials to issue a short-term weather warning until 10:30 a.m. Residents were advised to remain cautious, particularly in areas vulnerable to strong winds and lightning strikes.
The weather office indicated that places including Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Phagwara, Nakodar, Shahkot, Sultanpur Lodhi, Khadoor Sahib and Baba Bakala were likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and brisk winds. Similar weather conditions, though less intense, were also expected in parts of Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Nawanshahr, Balachaur, Garhshankar, Bhulath, Patti and Rupnagar.
While the skies remained largely clear over Chandigarh during the morning, meteorologists said the Union Territory could also witness changing weather patterns as the week progresses.
Despite the brief showers, temperatures across Punjab continue to remain above seasonal averages. The Meteorological Department said the state’s average maximum temperature has risen by nearly one degree Celsius and is currently around 2.7 degrees above normal. Bathinda remained the hottest location in Punjab on Saturday, recording a maximum temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius.
Weather experts expect the southwest monsoon to make its presence felt in Punjab this week, bringing more widespread rainfall and a gradual decline in daytime temperatures. Over the next three days, partly cloudy skies are likely to prevail, with isolated spells of light rain and thunderstorms in some districts.
Although temperatures are expected to ease slightly, humidity levels are likely to remain high, resulting in uncomfortable weather conditions. Maximum temperatures may decline to around 39 degrees Celsius in the coming days, while minimum temperatures are expected to hover between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius.
Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for Punjab and Chandigarh on July 1 and July 2, warning of more active weather conditions. Forecasts indicate moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kmph in several parts of the state.
Authorities have advised residents to remain updated with official weather bulletins and take necessary precautions during thunderstorms, particularly while travelling or working outdoors. Farmers and commuters have also been urged to monitor weather advisories as the monsoon begins advancing into the region.
