Chandigarh: After days of blistering temperatures and dry conditions, weather officials have predicted a gradual return of rainfall activity across Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, bringing relief from the intense heatwave that has gripped the region.
The India Meteorological Department has indicated that while hot conditions are expected to persist for the next couple of days, a western disturbance is likely to trigger thunderstorms, gusty winds and scattered showers later this week.
On Monday, temperatures remained significantly above normal across much of the region. Chandigarh recorded 42.7 degrees Celsius, while Bathinda emerged as Punjab’s hottest location at 44.7 degrees Celsius. In Haryana, Sirsa remained the hottest district with 46.2 degrees Celsius, reflecting the severity of the ongoing heat spell.
Night temperatures have also stayed unusually high in several places, especially in Mohali and nearby districts, making conditions uncomfortable even after sunset.
Meteorologists said isolated rainfall was reported in parts of Punjab over the last 24 hours, though the showers were too limited to bring any major cooling effect. Gusty winds were also observed at a few locations across both Punjab and Haryana.
According to forecasts, Tuesday and Wednesday will continue to witness clear skies and severe heat, with temperatures likely to remain above 40 degrees Celsius in most urban centres.
However, weather conditions are expected to begin changing from Thursday, when cloud cover is likely to increase. This will be followed by rainfall, lightning activity and strong winds ranging between 50 and 60 kmph across several districts.
The most significant relief is expected between Friday and Saturday, when fairly widespread rainfall is predicted across large parts of northwestern India. Some isolated pockets may also witness hailstorm activity.
The rainfall is likely to pull temperatures down by several degrees, with maximum readings expected to fall to 37 to 38 degrees Celsius, ending the harsh heatwave spell that has dominated the region for nearly a week.
The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity and avoid exposure to strong winds and lightning once the weather system becomes active.
The approaching change is being seen as the first major pre-monsoon cooling phase of the season and is expected to bring welcome relief to residents struggling under extreme summer conditions.
