Chandigarh: A fresh weather disturbance is expected to affect Punjab and Chandigarh on October 29 and 30, prompting a two-day warning for thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds. Hailstorms are also possible at isolated places, according to the forecast issued by the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh.
The weather is likely to begin stabilising from October 31, with the chances of rainfall declining after the current warning period. Until then, changing conditions could bring temporary disruption in areas affected by thunderstorms and gusty winds.
The alert follows a recent rise in daytime temperatures across Punjab. The average maximum temperature increased by 0.7°C compared with Wednesday, bringing it closer to the seasonal average. Faridkot was the hottest reported location, recording a maximum of 36.2°C.
Chandigarh, meanwhile, registered 33°C on October 28, which was 4.2°C above its normal maximum for the period.
Western Disturbance to influence weather conditions
The anticipated change has been attributed to a Western Disturbance affecting the northwestern region. A cyclonic circulation over Jammu and adjoining areas is positioned at a height of around 3.1 to 4.5 kilometres above sea level.
Another weather system, appearing as a trough in the middle-level westerly winds, is also active. Together, these systems are expected to create conditions favourable for cloud formation, thunderstorms and strong winds over Punjab and Chandigarh. Isolated areas could also experience hail.
The intensity of the weather may vary across districts, making local forecasts important during the alert period.
Temperatures to remain warm after the alert
The extended forecast indicates that rain activity should ease once October 30 passes. No warnings have been issued for Punjab from October 31 through November 4, according to the forecast details.
Daytime temperatures are expected to range between 30°C and 32°C in most areas, while some places could record highs of 32°C to 34°C. This suggests that afternoons may continue to feel warm even after the unsettled weather subsides.
Minimum temperatures may fall to 8°C in some areas
Nighttime conditions are expected to remain cooler in several districts. Pathankot, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr and Rupnagar may see minimum temperatures between 8°C and 12°C.
Elsewhere in Punjab, minimum readings are forecast to remain in the 12°C to 14°C range. Night temperatures across the state are expected to stay broadly near seasonal norms.
Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates over the next two days, especially in areas where lightning, hail or strong winds are forecast. Conditions are expected to improve from October 31, followed by a week with relatively warm days and cooler nights.
