Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab and Chandigarh are set to experience a spell of unsettled weather on October 29 and 30, with thunderstorms, lightning, strong winds and the possibility of hail in isolated locations. The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has issued a warning for both days, while conditions are expected to improve from October 31.
The alert comes as temperatures across Punjab have climbed in recent days. The state’s average maximum temperature increased by 0.7°C compared with Wednesday, bringing readings closer to seasonal levels. Faridkot recorded the highest maximum at 36.2°C.
Chandigarh also experienced warmer-than-usual conditions on October 28, when the maximum temperature reached 33°C — around 4.2°C above the normal level for this time of year.
Western Disturbance behind expected change
Meteorologists have linked the approaching weather change to a Western Disturbance affecting northwestern India. A cyclonic circulation has developed over Jammu and nearby areas at an altitude of approximately 3.1 to 4.5 kilometres.
Another Western Disturbance is present as a trough in the mid-tropospheric westerly winds. The combined influence of these systems could lead to cloud cover, thunderstorms and gusty winds across Punjab and Chandigarh, with hail possible in some locations.
Residents should remain alert to local weather updates during the two-day warning period, particularly where thunderstorms or strong winds develop.
Rain chances expected to decline after October 30
The weather outlook suggests that the possibility of rainfall will decrease after October 30. No weather warnings have been issued for Punjab for the period from October 31 to November 4 in the forecast provided.
Maximum temperatures during the coming week are expected to remain between 30°C and 32°C across many areas, while some locations could see highs of 32°C to 34°C. Daytime conditions may therefore remain near or above seasonal averages even after the immediate weather disturbance passes.
Cooler nights forecast in several districts
Nighttime temperatures are expected to stay relatively low in parts of northern and northeastern Punjab. Pathankot, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr and Rupnagar could record minimum temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C.
In other parts of the state, nighttime readings are likely to remain between 12°C and 14°C. Overall, minimum temperatures are forecast to stay close to normal levels throughout the week.
With thunderstorms and possible hail in the immediate forecast, residents are advised to follow official bulletins for district-specific updates. Weather conditions are expected to settle from October 31, although daytime temperatures may continue to remain relatively warm.
