Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): After days of intense heat and uncomfortable humidity, Punjab is likely to witness a significant change in weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting an active spell of rain beginning this weekend. An Orange Alert has been issued for June 27 and 28, warning of heavy rainfall in several districts and advising residents to remain cautious.
According to weather officials, monsoon conditions are expected to strengthen rapidly over the state, bringing widespread showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds. The rainfall is likely to provide substantial relief from soaring temperatures while improving conditions for ongoing agricultural activities.
The weather department has predicted scattered light to moderate rain accompanied by lightning and winds of 30 to 40 kmph on June 26. However, rainfall intensity is expected to increase considerably over the next two days, with heavy to very heavy showers forecast in many parts of Punjab. Authorities have cautioned that low-lying areas may experience waterlogging, while traffic movement could be affected during periods of intense rain.
Even after the peak spell, weather activity is expected to continue until at least July 1. Although rainfall may become less intense after June 28, intermittent showers are likely across several districts, helping maintain comfortable weather conditions.
Meteorologists estimate that daytime temperatures could fall by three to five degrees Celsius as cloud cover and rainfall become more widespread. Maximum temperatures, which have recently ranged between 36°C and 41°C across the state, are expected to settle at more comfortable levels, reducing heat stress for residents.
The approaching rainfall comes at a time when Punjab’s electricity network is operating under exceptional demand. Driven by continuous use of cooling appliances during the prolonged heatwave, the state’s power consumption has crossed 16,000 MW, registering its highest demand of the season at 16,335 MW.
To ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, 12 of Punjab’s 15 thermal power generation units are currently operational. Officials believe that the anticipated drop in temperatures will gradually ease pressure on the power grid by reducing cooling requirements in homes and commercial establishments.
The expected rain is also being viewed as a positive development for the farming community. With paddy transplantation currently underway across much of Punjab, improved soil moisture and lower temperatures are likely to support agricultural operations and reduce dependence on irrigation in several areas.
The Meteorological Department has advised residents to monitor local weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall, and remain cautious in areas prone to waterlogging, lightning and strong winds. If forecasts hold, the coming days could mark the beginning of a more active monsoon phase across Punjab and Chandigarh, bringing long-awaited relief after weeks of oppressive summer weather.
