Chandigarh: The southwest monsoon has finally established itself over Punjab and Chandigarh, bringing much-needed respite from the prolonged spell of intense heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall over the next six days and issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms, gusty winds and heavy showers in several districts beginning Wednesday.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, wind speeds during thunderstorms could range between 40 and 50 kmph, while isolated pockets are likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next few days.
The change in weather has already led to a noticeable fall in daytime temperatures across the region. The state’s average maximum temperature dropped by up to 3.3 degrees Celsius compared to the previous day, although it continues to remain above the seasonal average. Bathinda recorded the highest daytime temperature at 41.5°C, while Chandigarh witnessed a sharp decline, with the mercury settling below the 30-degree mark.
Weather officials have forecast rainfall in 18 districts on Thursday, with heavy rain warnings issued for Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshahr), Rupnagar and Mohali. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong winds are also expected in districts including Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Sangrur, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala.
Meteorologists attributed the changing weather to the strengthening southwest monsoon over Punjab, supported by a cyclonic circulation over the region, an active western disturbance across north India and a monsoon trough extending from Punjab towards the Bay of Bengal.
Although the monsoon officially entered Punjab and Chandigarh on July 1, its initial progress has been slower than usual. Rainfall recorded on the first day of July remained below normal in most districts, despite isolated heavy showers in parts of northern Punjab. Pathankot received the highest rainfall, while several central and southern districts witnessed little or no precipitation.
Data released by the weather department indicates that Punjab has recorded a rainfall deficit since the beginning of the monsoon season, with cumulative precipitation remaining below the long-term average. However, officials expect the shortfall to narrow if the forecast rainfall materialises over the coming week.
The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees and stay away from waterlogged areas and weak structures during periods of strong winds. Farmers have also been urged to monitor local weather advisories before undertaking agricultural activities.
With rainfall expected to continue through the weekend, weather experts believe the fresh spell could provide substantial relief from heat and humidity while improving moisture conditions across the state.
