Chandigarh: Punjab appears to be heading for a notably colder winter this year, with recent temperature patterns signaling a significant seasonal shift. According to the Meteorological Department, the state recorded a 0.7°C drop in temperature over the past 24 hours, with current readings sitting nearly 2°C below seasonal norms.
The latest data confirms a steady decline in daytime temperatures across the region. While Bathinda remained the warmest location in the state at 34.2°C, other major cities stayed just above the 30°C mark. Amritsar and Pathankot both recorded 30.9°C, Ludhiana touched 31.1°C, Patiala reached 32.6°C, and Fazilka wasn’t far behind at 32.2°C. SBS Nagar remained the coolest among the surveyed cities with 29.6°C.
Meteorological officials suggest this trend is a precursor to an extended and colder-than-average winter. Forecast models show that both maximum and minimum temperatures will continue to stay below normal for at least the next week, accompanied by dry conditions across Punjab.
Fog and Cold Likely to Dominate North India
Experts warn that the drop in temperatures may soon be accompanied by widespread fog, especially in northern parts of Punjab and surrounding areas. Visibility issues could become more common as we move deeper into the season.
No significant precipitation is expected over the coming week. Daytime highs are likely to hover between 28–30°C in the northern and eastern districts, and 30–32°C in central and southern parts of the state—well below the typical seasonal averages. Night temperatures are expected to settle between 12–16°C, depending on the region.
Cities such as Pathankot, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Rupnagar may see nighttime lows around 12–14°C, while districts farther south will likely see slightly milder nights, ranging from 14–16°C.
Outlook for Mid-October: Persistent Dry Spell and Cooler Days
Between October 17 and 23, a continued downward trend in temperature is expected. Southwestern Punjab may experience highs of 32–34°C, while central and southeastern districts will likely remain between 30–32°C. The northeastern belt can expect daytime temperatures in the range of 28–30°C.
Nighttime lows across all regions are expected to stay near or below average, reinforcing forecasts for a sharp seasonal transition. The absence of rainfall and a consistent drop in temperatures are strong indicators of an approaching cold wave in the weeks ahead.
As the region prepares for winter, health officials and local authorities have advised residents—especially the elderly and children—to take precautions against the sudden shift in weather conditions.
With October nearing its midpoint, Punjab is clearly on the cusp of a colder season, and the early signals suggest that winter 2025 could be more severe than in recent years.
