Chandigarh: A temporary lull in monsoon activity has pushed temperatures and humidity levels higher across Punjab, leaving residents grappling with uncomfortable weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the state is likely to witness another day of hot and humid conditions, particularly in the southwestern districts, before rainfall activity gathers momentum again next week.
A Yellow Alert has been issued for Ferozepur, Fazilka, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Moga, Bathinda, Barnala and Mansa, where high humidity coupled with soaring daytime temperatures is expected to cause discomfort. While isolated showers may occur in parts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mohali and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, no major weather warning has been issued for these districts.
The maximum temperature across Punjab has climbed to nearly 2.8 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average, with Bathinda emerging as the hottest location after recording 41.2°C.
Weather system shifts away from North India
Meteorologists attribute the weakening of monsoon conditions to the movement of the primary rain-bearing system towards eastern India. The low-pressure area responsible for widespread rainfall is currently influencing Odisha and West Bengal, drawing moisture and cloud formations away from Punjab. As a result, the state has witnessed reduced cloud cover and limited rainfall over the past few days.
According to weather officials, the situation is expected to improve after July 19, when fresh monsoon currents are likely to move towards northwestern India. Widespread showers are forecast between July 20 and July 22, with heavy rainfall possible in some regions.
Electricity demand remains high
The persistent heat has also increased electricity consumption across the state. Punjab recorded a power demand of 14,571 MW, while in-state generation stood at 5,588 MW. The remaining requirement was met through power drawn from the national grid. Despite the surge in consumption, officials said the state remained within its allocated power quota.
Reservoirs continue to receive inflows
Water levels in the state’s key reservoirs remain comfortably below danger levels despite continued inflows. According to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Bhakra Dam is currently at 1,582.78 feet, while Pong Dam stands at 1,322.12 feet, both below their respective warning marks.
Bhakra received an inflow of more than 34,000 cusecs, with controlled water releases continuing downstream. Pong Dam also recorded fresh inflows, although outflow remained higher than incoming water to regulate reservoir levels.
Weather experts have advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the afternoon heat, remain hydrated and monitor official forecasts as changing monsoon conditions are expected to bring relief early next week.
