Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): After weeks of intense summer heat, Punjab has witnessed a dramatic change in weather, with widespread rainfall and strong winds bringing down temperatures significantly across the state. While the cooler conditions have provided much-needed relief, the accompanying storms have also caused loss of life and extensive damage to power infrastructure.
According to weather officials, the state’s maximum temperature has fallen by more than five degrees Celsius over the past two days and now remains well below the seasonal average. Faridkot recorded the highest daytime temperature at 36.7 degrees Celsius, indicating a sharp break from the recent heatwave conditions.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rainfall in several parts of Punjab, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Districts including Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Mansa, Rupnagar and Mohali are expected to remain under the influence of unstable weather conditions.
The recent spell of rain has also improved the state’s rainfall statistics. Punjab has received above-normal precipitation for the month so far, with Nawanshahr recording the highest rainfall during the latest spell. Several areas also experienced hailstorms and strong winds that disrupted normal life.
However, the changing weather has come at a cost. Three people have reportedly lost their lives in separate weather-related incidents, while the state’s electricity distribution network has suffered heavy damage. Hundreds of power poles and more than a hundred transformers were damaged due to high-speed winds, resulting in financial losses running into crores of rupees and temporary disruption of power supply in several regions.
Meteorological experts attribute the current conditions to an active western disturbance coupled with moisture-laden easterly winds. They expect intermittent rain and thunderstorms to continue over the next few days, although wind intensity is likely to reduce gradually.
Officials have advised residents to remain cautious during periods of lightning and strong winds, avoid sheltering under trees, and limit unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.
Weather alerts have also been issued for multiple districts over the coming days, with authorities monitoring the situation closely. Experts believe that the prevailing atmospheric pattern indicates that the southwest monsoon is progressing normally and is likely to enter Punjab by the end of June, paving the way for sustained relief from soaring temperatures.
