Punjab is expected to face a fresh spell of rough weather over the next two days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an orange alert across the state. The warning indicates that thunderstorms, dust storms, hail, and strong winds are likely to affect many areas until May 5.
According to the IMD, this sudden change in weather is due to a Western Disturbance combined with easterly winds near the surface. These conditions are creating instability in the atmosphere, which is leading to storm activity across north India, including Punjab.
The weather department has warned that wind speeds may reach 50 to 60 kilometres per hour in some places. Lightning strikes and hailstorms are also expected in isolated areas. An orange alert is the second highest level in the IMD’s four-colour warning system and means that people should stay alert and be prepared for possible disruptions.
Officials have advised residents to take precautions during this period. People are urged to avoid stepping outside during thunderstorms unless necessary. They should not stand under trees or near electric poles, as strong winds and lightning can make these areas dangerous.
The IMD forecast shows that many districts in Punjab are likely to experience stormy weather. Cities such as Ludhiana, Patiala, Sangrur, Bathinda, Rupnagar, Mohali, and Hoshiarpur are expected to see thunderstorms along with gusty winds and possible hail.
In some other areas, dust storms may occur first, followed by light rain. The department has said that light to moderate rainfall is likely at many places on May 4 and at several locations on May 5.
On Sunday, parts of Punjab had already started experiencing this change in weather. Many areas reported light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms and strong winds. Ludhiana was one of the cities that saw intense storm activity, which caused disruption and damage in some areas.
The rainfall has brought temporary relief from the intense summer heat that the state had been experiencing. The average maximum temperature across Punjab dropped by about 3.4 degrees Celsius and is now around 4.7 degrees below normal levels.
Different cities recorded cooler temperatures due to the weather change. Gurdaspur was the coolest place in the state, with a maximum temperature of 28.5 degrees Celsius. Hoshiarpur recorded 31.5 degrees, while Amritsar saw a comfortable 32.8 degrees.
Other cities also reported lower temperatures. Anandpur Sahib recorded 32.8 degrees, Chandigarh 33.2 degrees, Ludhiana 33.4 degrees, Patiala 34.6 degrees, and Ferozepur also 34.6 degrees. Abohar recorded 35.4 degrees, while Bathinda saw 36.3 degrees. Faridkot remained the hottest in the state at 38.1 degrees Celsius.
Rainfall levels also varied across the state. Ludhiana received around 24.6 mm of rainfall, while Chandigarh recorded 24.5 mm, both falling under the moderate rainfall category. Amritsar received 2.2 mm of rain, while many other places recorded only trace amounts of rainfall.
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Along with daytime temperatures, night temperatures have also dropped significantly across Punjab. In Chandigarh, the minimum temperature fell sharply from 21.9 degrees Celsius to 17.1 degrees within 24 hours. This is the lowest night temperature recorded in May in the city since 1974.
Ludhiana and Hoshiarpur also experienced cooler nights, both recording minimum temperatures of around 18 degrees Celsius. Patiala recorded a minimum temperature of 19.7 degrees. The IMD has said that with more storm activity expected in the coming days, temperatures may fall further.
While the cooler weather has provided relief from the heat, it also comes with risks. Strong winds can damage trees, electricity poles, and buildings. Hailstorms can harm crops and vehicles, while lightning poses a serious safety threat.
The IMD has therefore issued clear safety guidelines for residents. People should stay indoors as much as possible during storms. Windows and doors should be properly secured to prevent damage from strong winds. Farmers are also advised to take precautions to protect crops and livestock from hail and heavy rain.
Drivers should be extra careful on the roads, as sudden storms can reduce visibility and make driving conditions dangerous. Waterlogging in some areas may also cause traffic issues.
The orange alert serves as an important warning for everyone to stay prepared. While such weather changes are common during the pre-monsoon season, their intensity can sometimes lead to unexpected damage and disruption.
In the coming days, authorities are expected to remain on alert to manage any emergencies caused by the storms. Residents are encouraged to stay updated with weather forecasts and follow official advisories.
Overall, while the drop in temperature is a welcome break from the heat, people need to remain cautious and prepared as Punjab braces for more stormy weather over the next 48 hours.
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