Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): After several days of rain-induced relief, Punjab and Chandigarh are once again witnessing a rise in temperatures as dry weather gradually returns across the region. Meteorological data shows that the maximum temperature climbed by around 5.4 degrees Celsius within a single day, although it continues to remain slightly below the seasonal average.
Patiala emerged as the hottest location in the state, recording a daytime temperature of 38.1 degrees Celsius, while most other districts reported readings ranging between **34 and 38 degrees Celsius.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in parts of southwestern Punjab. A yellow weather alert has been issued for districts including Fazilka, Ferozepur, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Moga, Barnala, Mansa and Bathinda, where wind speeds may touch 40–50 kmph during isolated weather activity.
Dry Spell Likely to Push Up Temperatures
Weather experts believe the state will largely experience hot and dry conditions over the next few days, with only scattered rain expected in isolated pockets. The absence of a strong western disturbance is likely to allow temperatures to climb steadily, resulting in increased humidity across many regions.
Localized dust storms and brief spells of rain may still occur due to the influence of a cyclonic circulation and trough system, particularly during the afternoon or evening hours.
June Rainfall Above Seasonal Average
Despite the improving weather, rainfall statistics for the month remain encouraging. Between June 1 and June 14, Punjab received 18.9 mm of rainfall, exceeding the normal average of 16.2 mm, reflecting an increase of nearly 17 percent.
Several districts have recorded significantly higher precipitation than usual. SBS Nagar topped the list with 71.5 mm of rainfall, followed by Ludhiana (38.7 mm) and Gurdaspur (33.6 mm). Above-average rainfall was also observed in Amritsar, Ferozepur and Tarn Taran.
However, some districts continue to face a rainfall deficit. Barnala has recorded only 4.8 mm, nearly 69 percent below normal, while Hoshiarpur, Sangrur, Rupnagar and Mohali have also received less rainfall than expected this month.
Mercury Expected to Rise Further
According to officials at the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, daytime temperatures could increase by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius over the next five days, leading to warmer and more humid conditions across the state. While isolated thunderstorms may continue until June 20, widespread rainfall activity is expected to remain limited.
Monsoon Likely to Arrive in Phases
Meteorologists anticipate the southwest monsoon to enter southern Punjab between June 30 and July 5, covering districts such as Bathinda, Mansa, Fazilka, Ferozepur and Sri Muktsar Sahib first. The central districts are expected to receive monsoon showers by early July, while the northern and Doaba regions could witness its arrival between July 5 and July 8, depending on prevailing weather conditions.
