Chandigarh: Punjab is likely to receive another spell of light to moderate rain in three districts on Friday, October 16, following rainfall and hailstorms that brought relief from warmer conditions across the state. Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur are among the areas where showers are possible, while Chandigarh is expected to remain cloudy, with a chance of rain.
According to the latest forecast from the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, the recent change in weather has led to a noticeable fall in temperatures. The state’s average maximum temperature dropped by 3.8 degrees Celsius after Thursday’s rain, leaving it around five degrees below normal.
The cooler conditions have also reduced electricity demand in Punjab. However, the rainfall forecast for Friday is limited to a few districts, and no widespread rain alert has been issued for the state, according to local media reports citing the weather department.
Which Punjab Districts May Receive Rain Today?
Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur are likely to experience light to moderate showers at some places on October 16. Chandigarh may also see cloudy skies and isolated rainfall.
The weather system responsible for the recent conditions includes a western disturbance active over Punjab and Chandigarh at an altitude of around 3.1 to 4.5 kilometres. Its influence has been more noticeable over northern Punjab and adjoining areas.
A cyclonic circulation over southern Haryana and neighbouring regions, at an altitude of approximately 0.9 kilometres, is another atmospheric feature associated with the prevailing conditions.
Despite the possibility of rain in some areas, the forecast does not indicate a widespread spell across Punjab. Weather conditions may vary from one district to another.
How Much Did Temperatures Fall After Rain And Hail?
The rainfall and hailstorm activity on Thursday brought a significant change in temperatures across Punjab. The state’s average maximum temperature fell by 3.8 degrees Celsius, settling around five degrees below the seasonal normal.
The cooler weather was noticeable in several cities, where maximum temperatures remained between 26 and 29 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Patiala, Mohali and Rupnagar did not record rainfall during the reported period, but cooler winds helped keep daytime temperatures relatively low.
The temperature figures also indicate that the recent rainfall brought temporary relief from warmer conditions. However, local weather conditions could change as the influence of the current system weakens.
Pathankot Records Punjab’s Highest Rainfall
Pathankot recorded the highest rainfall in Punjab on October 15, with 31.5 millimetres reported at its Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) station.
Other rainfall figures recorded across the state included:
- Pathankot (KVK): 31.5 mm
- Faridkot: 18.5 mm
- Gurdaspur: 15.5 mm
- Ferozepur: 3.5 mm
- Amritsar: 0.6 mm
No rainfall was reported in Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Patiala, Mohali and Rupnagar during the period covered by the figures. Nevertheless, the change in weather and cooler winds brought some relief to residents.
Punjab’s Electricity Demand Falls To 6,717 MW
The cooler conditions have also coincided with a decline in electricity demand across Punjab. The state’s reported power demand stood at 6,717 megawatts, around 90 MW below its allocated share.
Punjab’s total in-state electricity generation was recorded at 4,191 MW. The decline in demand comes as rainfall and lower temperatures reduce the need for cooling in some areas.
Residents in the districts where showers are forecast should keep track of local weather updates, as the intensity and distribution of rainfall may differ across locations. For now, the main weather development is the possibility of isolated rain in northern Punjab alongside temperatures that remain below normal after Thursday’s showers and hail.
