Ludhiana (Gurpreet Singh): The monsoon’s final push across Punjab has brought intermittent rainfall across several districts today, raising both hopes for relief from sweltering humidity and concerns over rising water levels. While residents welcomed the dip in temperatures, the rain has once again triggered flood anxiety, especially among farmers near the banks of the Sutlej River.
Several Districts Under Rain Cloud
The latest update from the Meteorological Department suggests that various regions in Punjab, particularly in the north and central zones, are experiencing light to moderate rainfall. Areas likely to receive significant showers include Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshahr), Rupnagar, Mohali, and Patiala.
Elsewhere in the state, cloudy skies dominate the forecast with chances of a passing drizzle. Weather officials note that this rainfall marks the concluding phase of the monsoon, which is expected to retreat completely by tomorrow.
Sutlej Water Levels Surge Again
In a troubling development, the Sutlej River has once more begun to swell, raising red flags for riverside settlements. The Dhussi embankment in Mandala Chhna village has shown signs of strain, with sections of the protective barrier reportedly breached by the force of flowing water. At least four houses located near the damaged stretch are now at immediate risk.
Local disaster management teams are on alert, and residents in nearby low-lying areas have been advised to remain vigilant. Authorities are assessing the situation to determine whether preventive evacuations will be needed.
Farmers on Edge
For many in Punjab’s agricultural belt, the rain comes at a difficult time. Farmers are particularly anxious about the impact of excess water on standing crops. With fields already saturated from earlier showers, today’s rainfall is likely to compound the threat of waterlogging and soil erosion.
Agriculture officials are urging farmers to take precautionary measures where possible, though options remain limited due to the saturated condition of most farmlands.
Temperature Sees a Dip
Thursday saw wide variations in temperature across the state. Mansa remained the hottest location with the mercury peaking at 38.4°C. In contrast, Mohali recorded a high of just over 30°C. With rain expected to continue in some areas through Saturday, a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures is expected to offer temporary comfort from the recent spell of oppressive heat.
No Severe Weather Warning, But Caution Advised
While no official alert for extreme weather or storms has been issued, the Meteorological Department has recommended that residents—especially those near riverbanks or in flood-prone areas—remain prepared for any sudden developments. Authorities are also monitoring water bodies across the region for unusual fluctuations.
As Punjab prepares to bid farewell to the monsoon, today’s weather highlights the dual nature of seasonal rain—bringing welcome coolness, but also unpredictable challenges for those on the ground.
