Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted another spell of monsoon activity across Punjab, with several districts expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall over the next few days. Weather officials have advised residents to remain alert as localized heavy showers could lead to waterlogging in urban areas and rising water levels in seasonal streams.
According to the latest forecast, districts adjoining the Shivalik foothills and the Jammu border—including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar and Mohali—are more likely to witness intense rainfall. Most other districts are expected to receive scattered showers accompanied by thunderstorms.
Cloudy weather to keep temperatures below normal
The ongoing wet spell has helped bring down daytime temperatures across Punjab, keeping them below the seasonal average. However, weather experts said humidity levels remain high, making conditions uncomfortable despite the drop in mercury.
Chandigarh is also likely to experience cloudy skies with intermittent rain throughout the day. Officials said rainfall activity in the city may remain uneven, with some areas receiving brief heavy spells while others witness only light showers.
Power demand remains high despite cooler weather
Electricity consumption in the state continues to remain elevated as humid conditions have increased the use of air conditioners and cooling equipment. State utilities are maintaining supply through a combination of local generation and electricity procured from the national grid.
Officials said there is no immediate concern regarding power availability, though they continue to monitor demand during the monsoon season.
Reservoirs receiving increased inflow
Recent rainfall in the upper catchment areas has led to higher inflows into the Bhakra and Pong reservoirs. Water resources authorities said reservoir levels remain comfortably below their maximum storage capacity, and releases are being managed according to operational requirements.
Engineers are keeping a close watch on inflow trends to ensure safe reservoir operations during the active monsoon period.
Himachal issues caution as rain intensifies
Meanwhile, neighbouring Himachal Pradesh continues to remain under a heavy rain warning, with the IMD forecasting widespread showers until July 12. Authorities have warned of landslides, flash floods, falling rocks and road blockages in several hill districts.
Tourists and local residents have been advised to stay away from rivers, streams and landslide-prone locations. District administrations have also urged travellers to check road conditions before starting their journeys, as intermittent disruptions have already been reported on key highways due to debris and overflowing drains.
Weather officials said the current monsoon phase is expected to remain active over northwestern India for the next few days before gradually weakening, though isolated heavy rainfall events cannot be ruled out.
