Chandigarh: Weather conditions across Punjab and Chandigarh are set to shift from Monday night, with the Meteorological Department forecasting light rain and thunderstorms over the next two days. The change comes even as daytime temperatures have climbed sharply, giving the region an early taste of summer.
For the first time this February, the mercury has crossed the 29-degree mark in parts of Punjab. Ferozepur recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state, while overall daytime readings during the past 24 hours were nearly 3.9 degrees above the seasonal average. Both minimum and maximum temperatures have risen by around one degree compared to the previous day.
Western Disturbance to Trigger Rain
According to the India Meteorological Department, strong westerly winds are prevailing over North India and a fresh western disturbance is approaching the Himalayan region. The system is expected to bring snowfall to higher reaches and induce rainfall in the plains, including Punjab and Chandigarh, on February 17 and 18.
While Monday is likely to remain largely sunny with breezy conditions, clouding is expected to increase later in the day. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning may occur at isolated locations during the two-day wet spell.
Temperatures on the Rise
Maximum temperatures across the state have been ranging between 24°C and 29°C. Chandigarh and Mohali both recorded a high of 26.4°C. Other major cities reported similar readings: Amritsar at 24.6°C, Ludhiana at 27.0°C, Patiala at 27.3°C, Bathinda at 26.0°C and Rupnagar at 26.8°C.
Night temperatures have been fluctuating between 8°C and 12°C. Officials indicate that minimum temperatures are likely to increase by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius over the next few days before dipping slightly thereafter.
District-Wise Forecast
- February 17: Light rain or thundershowers may occur at isolated places in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Fazilka, Muktsar and Bathinda.
- February 18: Similar conditions are expected in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Fazilka, Sri Muktsar Sahib and Bathinda.
- February 19: No weather alert has been issued.
Meteorological officials say the brief spell of rain could offer temporary relief from the rising daytime heat, even as nighttime temperatures are projected to edge upward in the short term.
