The weather in Punjab and Chandigarh is expected to change from today as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms and light to moderate rainfall in several areas. According to meteorological officials, the weather activity is likely to continue till March 19, bringing relief from rising temperatures across the region.

The shift in weather conditions is mainly due to the influence of a fresh western disturbance that has become active over north-west India. This system is expected to trigger cloud formation, rainfall, gusty winds and lightning in parts of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh over the next few days.

Thunderstorm and rain expected for five days

The IMD has forecast isolated rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in many districts of Punjab and nearby areas. Wind speeds during thunderstorms may reach 30–50 kmph, which could temporarily affect daily activities and traffic movement.

Weather experts say that rainfall activity is expected to gradually increase between March 15 and March 19, when scattered showers may occur across different parts of the state. Some areas could also experience brief hailstorms along with thundercloud activity during this period.

Authorities have advised residents to stay cautious during thunderstorms and avoid open areas during lightning events.

Temperatures likely to fall across the region

The change in weather pattern is also expected to bring a noticeable drop in temperature across Punjab and Chandigarh. According to the IMD forecast, maximum temperatures across the plains of northwest India may fall by about 3–5°C over the next week due to rainfall and cloudy conditions.

In recent days, temperatures in the region had risen above normal levels for early March, leading to warmer afternoons. However, with the arrival of rain and thunderstorms, daytime temperatures are likely to decline and provide temporary relief from the heat.

Night temperatures may remain close to normal levels during this period.

March rainfall deficit worries experts

Despite the expected rainfall in the coming days, weather data shows that Punjab has recorded nearly 97 percent less rainfall in March so far, indicating a significant deficit for the month. The prolonged dry spell earlier in the month contributed to rising temperatures and dry weather conditions across the state.

Meteorologists believe the upcoming rainfall may partially reduce the deficit but may not completely compensate for the shortage recorded earlier in March.

The lack of rainfall during the early weeks of the month has also raised concerns among farmers, as pre-monsoon showers often play a crucial role in maintaining soil moisture for crops.

Impact on agriculture and daily life

The predicted rainfall could bring mixed impacts. On one hand, it may provide relief from dry weather and help improve moisture levels in agricultural fields. On the other hand, thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds could cause localized damage to crop or temporary disruptions in transport and power supply.

Experts suggest farmers keep track of weather updates and take precautionary measures, especially during strong wind or hailstorm warnings.

With changing weather conditions expected across the region over the next few days, residents of Punjab and Chandigarh are advised to remain alert and follow official advisories issued by the meteorological department.