Heavy rain alert for 5 districts of Punjab; Chandigarh to remain cloudy; advisory issued for tourists in Himachal

July 9, 2026

The monsoon arrived in Punjab seven days ago, yet rainfall has not been commensurate with expectations. Consequently, hot and humid conditions persist. While Punjab has received 3 percent more rainfall than normal so far in July, Chandigarh has recorded 71 percent less rainfall than average.

However, the maximum temperature has dropped by three degrees Celsius and is currently 2.9 degrees below normal. Faridkot recorded a temperature of 38.9 degrees. According to the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, an alert for heavy rain at isolated places has been issued for the next three days, starting today (July 9).

Heavy rainfall in five districts 

The Meteorological Department predicts rain across all districts of the state today. However, heavy rainfall is likely in five districts: Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar, and Mohali. In light of this, people have been advised to remain cautious. Meanwhile, Chandigarh is expected to see cloudy skies along with the possibility of rain.

Separately, the Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rain alert for Himachal Pradesh until July 12. Heavy rain is likely at isolated locations in the Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur, Sirmaur, and Shimla districts, raising concerns about waterlogging and landslides in these areas.

Additionally, following a rise in the Beas River’s water level due to rain in Mandi on Wednesday, tourists have been urged to stay away from the riverbanks. On the Pathankot-Mandi National Highway, the old NH route was blocked near Maigal due to debris falling from the hillside.

Electricity Demand Reaches 15,405 MW

Due to the heat and humidity, the electricity demand in Punjab was recorded at 15,405 MW. Of this, 4,905 MW was generated by the state’s own power plants, while 10,518 MW was sourced from the national grid. Currently, the government is meeting the demand by purchasing additional power; however, if this situation persists, it could place a strain on the power supply system. Dam Water Levels Currently Below Danger Mark

According to the latest data from the BBMB, water inflow of 39,834 cusecs was recorded at the Bhakra Dam and 21,459 cusecs at the Pong Dam. Meanwhile, 24,287 cusecs of water is being released from the Bhakra Dam and 17,219 cusecs from the Pong Dam.

Currently, the water level stands at 1,568.66 feet for the Bhakra Dam and 1,318.96 feet for the Pong Dam; both are well below the dams’ designated maximum water levels. The maximum warning level is set at 1,680 feet for the Bhakra Dam and 1,390 feet for the Pong Dam.