Chandigarh: As the monsoon begins its gradual retreat from Punjab, the state is witnessing a noticeable shift in weather patterns. With rains tapering off and dry conditions settling in, temperatures are on the rise—particularly at night—and Ludhiana has emerged as the hottest location in the state.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon, which had stalled for nearly five days, has now begun withdrawing from roughly half of the state and is expected to recede completely within the next few days. Despite this slow departure, the season has been generous in terms of rainfall. Since June 1, Punjab has received 621.4 mm of rainfall—about 48% more than the seasonal average of 420.9 mm.
This surplus, however, has been a double-edged sword. While it has helped maintain healthy water levels in key reservoirs, it has also contributed to flooding in some parts of the state. As of 6 a.m. today, the Pong Dam in Himachal Pradesh stood at 1,391.84 feet, with an inflow of 17,786 cusecs and an outflow of 55,134 cusecs. Similarly, the Bhakra Dam recorded a water level of 1,677.07 feet, with 36,637 cusecs flowing in and 45,000 cusecs being released.
Looking ahead, the state is expected to remain dry over the next week. Meteorologists have ruled out any significant rainfall for the next seven days, setting the stage for warmer days and nights. While daytime temperatures remain close to the seasonal norm, nighttime readings are trending higher than usual.
Ludhiana’s Samrala area recorded the highest daytime temperature at 36.8°C. Other notable highs include 36.6°C in Bathinda, 35.4°C in Patiala, 35°C in Ludhiana city, 34.8°C in Amritsar, and 34.7°C in Pathankot.
Experts say that the absence of rain and clear skies are allowing more heat to build up during the day and linger into the night. This pattern is expected to persist until a fresh weather system arrives—likely not before October.
Residents are being advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours as the region transitions into a warmer, drier spell.
