Chandigarh: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across Punjab and Chandigarh over the next two days, issuing a yellow alert for August 5 and 6 as monsoon activity remains strong in the region. The ongoing showers have already brought down temperatures in several districts, providing relief from the recent spell of humid weather.
Cloudy skies prevailed over parts of Punjab, including Ludhiana and Pathankot, on Wednesday morning, with intermittent rainfall reported from several areas. According to the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, the intensity of the monsoon is expected to weaken after August 6, with only isolated light showers likely from August 7 onwards.
Patiala emerged as the wettest district in the state during the past 24 hours, recording a substantial 143 mm of rainfall. Other areas that witnessed significant precipitation included Sri Anandpur Sahib (58 mm), Saleran in Hoshiarpur (53.5 mm), Ballowal Saunkhri in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (43.3 mm), and Barnala (38.5 mm).
Despite widespread rain, Bathinda remained the hottest location in Punjab, registering a maximum temperature of 36.8 degrees Celsius.
In Chandigarh, the weather also remained pleasant due to persistent rainfall. The city recorded a maximum temperature of 31.3 degrees Celsius, around 2.1 degrees below the seasonal average, while the minimum settled at 23.7 degrees Celsius. The city received 16.5 mm of rainfall by Tuesday evening, and the IMD has predicted more rain accompanied by thunderstorms during the day.
Weather officials said moderate to heavy showers are likely at isolated places across Punjab and Chandigarh through August 6. While the current wet spell is expected to continue for another 48 hours, a gradual reduction in rainfall activity is forecast from August 7. Between August 8 and 10, only scattered light showers are expected in most parts of the region.
The administration has advised residents to remain cautious during periods of heavy rain, avoid waterlogged roads, and follow weather advisories, especially in areas vulnerable to urban flooding and traffic disruptions.
