Chandigarh: The southwest monsoon remained active across Punjab and Chandigarh on Tuesday, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue fresh weather alerts for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in several districts. The recent showers have also brought a noticeable drop in temperatures, offering relief from the humid conditions witnessed over the past few days.
According to the IMD, Orange and Yellow Alerts remain in force for multiple parts of Punjab and Chandigarh, with forecasts indicating spells of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning throughout the day. Weather officials have predicted that intermittent rainfall is likely to continue across the region until August 3, with light to moderate showers expected in most districts from July 30 onwards.
The widespread rainfall over the past 24 hours has significantly lowered daytime temperatures across the state. Punjab’s average maximum temperature fell by nearly 3 degrees Celsius, placing it around 3.1 degrees below the seasonal average. Minimum temperatures also registered a slight decline.
Despite the cooler conditions, Bathinda remained the warmest location in Punjab, recording a maximum temperature of 37 degrees Celsius.
Chandigarh also witnessed pleasant weather after consistent rainfall. The city recorded a maximum temperature of 29.6 degrees Celsius, which was 4.2 degrees below normal, while the minimum temperature settled at 24.9 degrees Celsius, around 2.2 degrees below the seasonal average.
Several districts received substantial rainfall during the last 24 hours. Sri Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar recorded the highest precipitation at 81.5 mm, followed by Thein Dam in Pathankot with 77.5 mm. Other areas, including Mohali, Bathinda, Ludhiana, Bhakra Dam, Balowal Saunkhri, and Pathankot, also reported moderate to heavy showers.
Chandigarh experienced steady rainfall throughout the day. While light showers were recorded during the early morning hours, rainfall intensified later, with significant precipitation measured in both the city and airport areas.
The Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rain could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas and increase the risk of lightning strikes during thunderstorms. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, remain indoors during thunderstorms, and follow official weather advisories until conditions improve.
