Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Monsoon conditions have strengthened across Punjab and Chandigarh, bringing widespread rainfall and a noticeable drop in temperatures after days of hot and humid weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that rainy conditions will persist over the next five days, with intermittent showers, thunderstorms and strong winds expected across many parts of the region.
Rainfall was reported from multiple districts during the past 24 hours, with Ludhiana and Faridkot emerging among the areas that received the highest precipitation. The fresh spell of rain has significantly improved weather conditions, providing relief to residents who had been struggling with intense heat and high humidity.
The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has issued a Yellow Alert, cautioning people about thunderstorms, lightning and wind speeds of 40 to 50 kmph at isolated locations. Weather experts said the active monsoon system is likely to keep rainfall activity elevated over the coming days.
The recent showers have also brought temperatures down across the state. The average daytime temperature has slipped to nearly 2.5 degrees Celsius below normal, while minimum temperatures have also registered a decline, making nights considerably cooler than in previous weeks.
According to weather officials, the southwest monsoon entered Punjab and Chandigarh on July 1 after a delayed onset compared to last year. Since then, favourable atmospheric conditions have helped the system strengthen, resulting in increased rainfall across several districts.
Forecast models indicate that thunderstorms and rain will continue on July 3 and July 4, while a more vigorous phase of monsoon activity is expected between July 5 and July 8. During this period, some districts may witness heavy rainfall along with strong winds and lightning. The IMD has accordingly issued an Orange Alert for parts of the state during the peak spell.
The weather department has advised residents to remain cautious during periods of heavy rain. People have been urged to avoid sheltering beneath trees, standing near electric poles or travelling through waterlogged roads during thunderstorms. Authorities have also asked district administrations to stay prepared for any disruption caused by intense rainfall.
With the monsoon now firmly established over the region, officials expect rainfall activity to remain consistent over the coming days, bringing further respite from the summer heat while also requiring heightened vigilance in vulnerable areas.
