Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): The southwest monsoon continued to influence weather conditions across Punjab on Saturday, bringing intermittent showers to several districts and offering temporary relief from soaring temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that rainfall activity will persist in parts of the state over the next 24 hours, with heavier spells likely in districts adjoining the Shivalik foothills.
According to the weather department, isolated heavy rain is expected in Pathankot, Hoshiarpur and Rupnagar, while light to moderate showers are likely in Mohali, Patiala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Barnala, Sangrur and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar.
Chandigarh and its surrounding areas witnessed overnight rainfall, resulting in cooler morning temperatures and overcast skies. Several low-lying pockets reported temporary water accumulation, though normal traffic movement was largely restored after the rain subsided.
Officials have advised residents to remain cautious, particularly in areas close to rivers, seasonal streams and drainage channels, as water levels can rise rapidly during periods of intense rainfall. Disaster management teams and local administrations have also been directed to remain on alert in vulnerable locations.
Meanwhile, weather officials noted that the recent showers have helped keep daytime temperatures close to seasonal averages. However, the respite may be short-lived as rainfall activity is expected to decline after July 12.
Meteorologists explained that the weakening of the current weather system and the northward shift of the monsoon trough are likely to reduce widespread rainfall across Punjab. While isolated showers may continue, most districts are expected to witness relatively dry weather in the following days.
As rainfall decreases, humidity levels are expected to rise again, making weather conditions uncomfortable despite moderate temperatures. Experts said moisture trapped in the atmosphere could lead to sultry conditions, especially during the afternoon hours.
The state government has appealed to citizens to monitor official weather advisories, avoid venturing into overflowing water bodies and report any incidents of flooding, waterlogging or infrastructure damage to local authorities. Emergency response teams remain on standby to deal with any weather-related emergencies during the ongoing monsoon season.
