Chandigarh: Punjab is bracing for another spell of rainfall today as the monsoon system makes a final sweep through the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rain in multiple districts, which could offer relief from the lingering humidity—but also raise concerns about already swollen rivers and flood-prone areas.
According to today’s forecast, showers are expected in districts including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Rupnagar, SAS Nagar (Mohali), and Patiala. While some parts of the state may see light rain or overcast skies, others are likely to experience more intense precipitation through the day.
Rising Sutlej Raises Alarm Bells
The persistent rainfall has led to a renewed rise in the Sutlej River’s water level, especially in the Mandala Chhna area. The increased flow has put additional pressure on the Dhussi Bandh (embankment), where recent damage has already compromised parts of the structure. Four homes situated close to the embankment are now in a precarious position as sections of the protective barrier have been washed away.
Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents near vulnerable riverbanks to stay alert. Though emergency measures are being considered, the potential for flooding remains a concern, particularly if rains continue through the weekend.
Relief from Heat—But at a Cost
While the rain is expected to ease temperatures, it has brought a new set of worries, especially for farmers who are already coping with uncertain weather patterns this season. With fields already saturated, additional rainfall could pose a risk to standing crops, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone zones.
Mansa recorded the highest temperature in the state on Thursday, reaching 38.4°C, despite cloudy conditions. In contrast, Mohali registered a significantly lower high of 30.2°C. The expected rainfall today is likely to bring overall temperatures down slightly, offering some respite from the muggy conditions that have persisted throughout the past week.
Monsoon Retreat Imminent
The IMD has indicated that the southwest monsoon is expected to exit Punjab by September 20. Before its departure, it will continue to affect central and northern parts of the state, possibly leading to sporadic rainfall today and tomorrow.
Though there is no official alert for extreme weather or storms, authorities have urged citizens—particularly those in flood-prone areas—to exercise caution.
As the state looks toward the end of the monsoon season, the final rains are proving to be a mixed blessing—bringing cooler air, but also heightening the risk of water-related disruptions.
