Chandigarh: Weather conditions across Punjab and Chandigarh are poised for another shift as cooler winds from the hills are expected to bring down daytime temperatures slightly after several days of bright sunshine and rising mercury levels.
Over the past 24 hours, the maximum temperature in the region increased marginally by 0.6 degrees Celsius, remaining 3.8 degrees above the seasonal average. Ferozepur recorded the highest daytime temperature at 26.6 degrees Celsius, reflecting the recent warm spell.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the change in weather will begin late on February 16 as a Western Disturbance influences the northern hills. Another system is expected to become active around the same time, potentially triggering scattered rainfall on February 17. However, officials clarified that precipitation will likely be limited to isolated pockets rather than widespread across the state.
Meteorologists also indicated that partly cloudy skies may persist along the Amritsar–Ambala and Ambala–Delhi highway corridors on February 14 and 15. At present, no fog advisory has been issued for the region.
The IMD forecasts that weather conditions will remain generally stable between February 14 and 19, with no heavy rainfall anticipated. Daytime temperatures in northern and eastern districts are expected to hover between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius, while other parts of Punjab may see highs ranging from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius. Overall, maximum temperatures are projected to stay above normal for this time of year.
Night temperatures are likely to range between 8 and 12 degrees Celsius and remain close to the seasonal average during the week.
IMD Director Surendra Pal Singh stated that light rain accompanied by possible thunderstorms and lightning could occur in certain areas on February 17. He added that minimum temperatures are not expected to witness any major fluctuation over the next 48 hours. Thereafter, a gradual rise of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius is anticipated.
Following the brief spell of unsettled weather, clearer skies are expected to return, and temperatures may begin climbing again after February 17.
