Saturday, March 29, 2025
As heatwaves continue to scorch Punjab, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a three-day rain and thunderstorm alert for May 19 to 21. A yellow alert has been sounded for several districts, warning of strong winds reaching up to 50 km/h, lightning strikes, and sporadic rainfall. Despite the expected rain, temperatures remain dangerously high, with Bathinda recording a searing 45.2°C, the highest in the state.
In the last 24 hours, the average maximum temperature in Punjab has increased by 0.8°C, rising 2.7°C above normal. Currently, 12 cities have reported temperatures exceeding 40°C, making heat stress a major concern.
The upcoming weather shift is attributed to an active western disturbance, which is expected to trigger localized rain, thunderstorms, and lightning across Punjab and Chandigarh. Meanwhile, dry and hot weather will continue through the day today, although nighttime temperatures may drop slightly in some areas.
May 19 (Sunday)
Light to moderate rain is expected in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Nawanshahr, Rupnagar, Ludhiana, Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Patiala.
Strong winds (40–50 km/h), thunderstorms, and lightning are also likely in these areas.
May 20 (Monday)
Sporadic rain, thunderstorms, and lightning are forecasted in Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, and Rupnagar.
Wind speeds could again reach 50 km/h.
May 21 (Tuesday)
Firozpur, Moga, Faridkot, Bathinda, Muktsar, Fazilka, Barnala, Sangrur, and Mansa could see light rain with thunder and lightning.
Wind gusts between 40 and 50 km/h are expected in affected districts.
Chandigarh: Clear skies, no rain. Temperatures between 25°C and 41°C.
Amritsar: Sunny and dry, slight rise in temperature. 25°C to 43°C.
Jalandhar: Clear skies with a slight temperature increase. 23°C to 42°C.
Ludhiana: Dry weather with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 43°C.
Patiala: No rain or cloud warnings. Highs could reach 43°C.
Mohali: Dry and warm with expected highs around 42°C.
Authorities urge residents to:
Avoid outdoor exposure during peak heat hours.
Stay hydrated.
Secure loose objects to prevent wind damage.
Remain indoors during lightning and storms.
While temporary relief from the heat may arrive in the form of rain and winds, Punjab remains under a heatwave grip. Farmers, travelers, and vulnerable populations are advised to monitor updates from local authorities and follow safety guidelines as this weather pattern unfolds.
