Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Rainfall activity has eased considerably across Punjab as the monsoon enters a weaker phase, with only three districts likely to receive isolated showers on Wednesday. Most parts of the state are expected to remain dry, while Chandigarh is likely to experience clear weather.
The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has forecast light to moderate rain at isolated places in Pathankot, Rupnagar and Hoshiarpur. There is little possibility of significant rainfall elsewhere in Punjab.
The lack of widespread showers could contribute to a gradual rise in temperatures, particularly amid persistent humidity.
Mercury climbs above normal
Punjab’s maximum temperature increased by 0.3°C compared with the previous day and is now around 1.6°C above normal.
Faridkot recorded the highest temperature at 36°C. Although rainfall had been predicted in parts of the state on Tuesday, the forecast did not translate into significant precipitation.
The weather is expected to remain predominantly dry in Chandigarh, with clear skies likely during the day.
Monsoon trough remains over Punjab
The weakening rainfall pattern is linked to the current atmospheric conditions over the region. The monsoon trough is passing through Ferozepur, keeping moisture available over Punjab but without a strong enough system to trigger widespread rain.
An upper-air cyclonic circulation over North Haryana and adjoining areas could result in cloud development over parts of Punjab. This may produce isolated showers or thunderstorms at a few locations.
The Western Disturbance that had earlier influenced the region has now moved towards the northeast, reducing its impact on Punjab and Chandigarh.
According to Surendra Pal, Director of the Meteorological Centre, Chandigarh, some areas of Punjab could continue to receive light to moderate rainfall until September 14. Isolated thunderstorms and lightning are also possible during this period.
Power requirement jumps amid heat and humidity
The relatively warm and humid conditions have also pushed up electricity consumption in the state.
Punjab’s power demand reached 12,969 MW by 6 am. Against this requirement, the state was generating 4,576 MW, while another 8,395 MW was being sourced from outside.
The external drawal was reportedly 470 MW above the stipulated limit, while the power grid frequency stood at 49.8 Hz.
Bhakra and Pong levels remain below danger marks
Water levels at Punjab’s two major reservoirs continue to remain below their respective danger levels.
At Bhakra Dam, the water level stood at 1,643.36 feet, with an inflow of 27,440 cusecs and an outflow of 25,300 cusecs.
The water level at Pong Dam was recorded at 1,372.5 feet. The reservoir was receiving 15,874 cusecs of water, while 12,315 cusecs was being released.
With the monsoon currently subdued, widespread rainfall is unlikely in Punjab in the immediate term. However, isolated showers and thunderstorms could continue in some areas through September 14, while rising temperatures and humidity may keep electricity demand elevated.
