Chandigarh: The monsoon over Punjab and Chandigarh appears to be losing some of its strength, with rainfall activity expected to remain limited to a few parts of the state. At the same time, temperatures have moved upward, adding to the discomfort caused by humid conditions.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Chandigarh, Punjab’s average temperature increased by 0.9°C in the past 24 hours. Light to moderate showers are likely at isolated locations in nine districts on Tuesday, while Chandigarh is expected to remain partly cloudy with the possibility of one or two spells of rain or thundershowers.
Nine Districts May Receive Rain
Rainfall is likely in parts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rupnagar, Patiala and SAS Nagar (Mohali).
The absence of significant rainfall on Monday contributed to a rise in heat and humidity, making weather conditions uncomfortable for residents in several areas.
Ferozepur recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 37°C.
Monsoon Trough Over Amritsar
Meteorological Centre director Surender Paul said the monsoon trough is currently positioned over Amritsar, which is supporting the possibility of rainfall in parts of Punjab.
An upper-air cyclonic circulation over North Haryana and adjoining areas is also expected to influence weather conditions and could encourage further rain and thundershowers in the state.
Rain Forecast Through August 27
The weather outlook suggests that light rain may occur in southwestern Punjab, while other parts of the state could receive light to moderate showers through August 27.
Temperatures are expected to remain on the higher side despite the possibility of rain. Maximum temperatures may remain around 32–34°C in Rupnagar, Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala, while northern and northeastern districts could see readings of 34–36°C.
In southern and southwestern Punjab, the maximum temperature could remain between 36°C and 40°C.
Night temperatures are also likely to stay above normal, with minimum readings forecast at around 22–24°C in northern and northeastern areas, 24–26°C across central Punjab and 26–28°C in southern districts.
Punjab Records 29% Rainfall Deficit
The state continues to face a significant shortfall in seasonal rainfall. Punjab has received around 239.6 mm of rain, compared with its normal rainfall for the corresponding period, resulting in a 29% deficit.
The relatively weak rainfall activity, coupled with above-normal temperatures, could continue to keep humidity levels high and make conditions uncomfortable in several parts of the state.
Power Demand Climbs With Rising Heat
The increase in temperatures has also pushed up electricity consumption across Punjab. The state’s power demand touched 13,729 MW during the night.
Of the total requirement, approximately 8,727 MW was supplied through external sources, including the central power pool, while Punjab’s own generating units contributed around 5,002 MW.
With rainfall expected only in scattered areas, weather conditions across Punjab are likely to remain mixed over the next few days, with some districts receiving showers while much of the state continues to experience warm and humid conditions.
