IMD Issues Weather Alert for Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh; Rain, Thunderstorms Expected

Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): The India Meteorological Department has released a special weather bulletin warning of changing weather conditions across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh starting April 6.

According to the advisory, a western disturbance is set to impact the Himalayan region, leading to increased rainfall activity accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds, and possible hailstorms in parts of the plains.

For Punjab and Haryana, light rainfall is expected at isolated locations over the next 24 hours. However, weather activity is likely to intensify on April 7, with light to moderate rainfall forecast at several places, followed by scattered showers on April 8. The department has warned that thunderstorms and lightning may occur alongside gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph on April 6, increasing to 40–60 kmph with chances of hail on April 7 and 8.

In Chandigarh, similar conditions are anticipated, with light to moderate rainfall expected at a few locations on April 7 and 8. These spells may also be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, along with the possibility of hail.

The weather department noted that there will be no significant change in maximum temperatures over the next 24 hours. However, a drop of 3–5 degrees Celsius is expected over the following two days before temperatures gradually rise again.

Authorities have also issued advisories urging residents to take precautions during thunderstorms and hailstorms. People have been advised to remain indoors during severe weather, avoid taking shelter under trees, and secure standing crops, particularly wheat and other rabi produce, from potential damage.

Farmers have been cautioned to suspend agricultural activities during adverse weather conditions and avoid irrigation or spraying of fertilizers and pesticides during thunderstorms or strong winds.

The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely and has urged citizens to stay updated with official forecasts as weather conditions evolve.