Chandigarh: After a brief spell of showers and cooler conditions, Punjab and Chandigarh are once again witnessing a rise in temperatures. The mercury climbed by nearly 5.4 degrees Celsius within the last 24 hours, indicating a gradual return of hot and humid weather across the region. Despite the increase, temperatures continue to remain slightly below the seasonal average.
Patiala recorded the state’s highest daytime temperature at 38.1 degrees Celsius, while several other districts reported maximum temperatures ranging between 34 and 38 degrees Celsius.
According to the Meteorological Department, isolated parts of Punjab may experience light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph during the day. A yellow alert has been issued for districts including Fazilka, Ferozepur, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Moga, Barnala, Bathinda and Mansa, where scattered weather activity is expected.
Dry Spell Likely to Increase Heat and Humidity
Weather experts believe that the weakening influence of the Western Disturbance will result in predominantly dry conditions across most parts of the state over the next few days. However, localised atmospheric systems may trigger brief dust storms and isolated showers in select regions, particularly during afternoon or evening hours.
The reduction in rainfall activity is expected to push up humidity levels, making conditions uncomfortable even though severe heatwave conditions are unlikely in the immediate future.
Punjab Records Excess Rainfall in June So Far
Data released by the India Meteorological Department indicates that Punjab has received above-normal rainfall during the first half of June. Between June 1 and June 14, the state recorded 18.9 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 16.2 mm, reflecting an excess of around 17 percent.
Among the districts, SBS Nagar, Ludhiana and Gurdaspur witnessed significantly higher rainfall than usual, while areas such as Barnala, Hoshiarpur, Sangrur, Rupnagar and Mohali continue to report rainfall deficits.
Recent showers on June 14 brought limited relief, with the Adampur Air Force Station in Jalandhar recording the highest rainfall of 30 mm, while only light precipitation was observed in a few other districts.
Mercury May Climb Further in Coming Days
Officials at the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre have projected that daytime temperatures could rise by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius over the next five days. Although isolated showers remain possible until June 18, rainfall activity is expected to become more widespread around June 19 and 20, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds in some locations.
Monsoon Expected Around Early July
The India Meteorological Department has maintained that the southwest monsoon is likely to reach Punjab within its normal timeframe. Southern districts such as Bathinda, Mansa, Fazilka, Ferozepur and Sri Muktsar Sahib are expected to receive monsoon rains between June 30 and July 5, while central and northern districts, including Ludhiana, Patiala, Amritsar, Jalandhar and Gurdaspur, may witness its arrival during the first week of July.
Until then, residents have been advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the afternoon sun, and remain alert for sudden thunderstorms or dust storms in vulnerable areas.
