Chandigarh: After days of intermittent showers, Punjab and Chandigarh are witnessing a temporary slowdown in monsoon activity, leading to rising temperatures and uncomfortable humidity across several districts. Weather experts have indicated that while isolated rain spells may continue, widespread precipitation is unlikely over the next few days.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for humid and warm conditions in parts of southwestern Punjab, including Bathinda, Mansa, Barnala, Moga, Faridkot, Fazilka and Ferozepur. Residents in these areas have been advised to remain cautious as the combination of high moisture and increasing temperatures could cause significant discomfort.
Scattered light to moderate rainfall is, however, expected in districts such as Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Hoshiarpur, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Rupnagar and Mohali, though these showers are not expected to bring any major change in the prevailing weather pattern.
According to meteorologists, the current lull is a result of weakened monsoon circulation over the plains, with most rain-bearing systems remaining concentrated over the Himalayan region. As a result, daytime temperatures have begun climbing again, with Bathinda recording one of the highest maximum temperatures in the state at nearly 39.5 degrees Celsius.
Officials said humidity levels are likely to remain elevated over the coming days, making outdoor conditions feel warmer than the actual temperature. The absence of widespread rainfall is expected to prolong the sticky weather across much of the state.
Weather experts, however, have indicated that the situation may improve after July 19, when a fresh monsoon system originating from the Bay of Bengal is expected to strengthen. If current projections hold, Punjab could witness more widespread rainfall between July 20 and July 22, bringing down daytime temperatures by several degrees and providing relief from the prevailing heat and humidity.
Until then, authorities have advised people to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the afternoon sun, and remain alert for sudden localised thunderstorms that may develop in isolated areas.
