Punjab records highest August rainfall in over two decades

Patiala: Punjab has recorded its wettest August in 25 years, receiving 253.7 mm of rainfall, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). This is 74% higher than the long-period average (LPA) of 146.2 mm for August based on data from 1971-2020. The record rainfall comes amid massive floods affecting several districts of the state.

The IMD report highlighted that Punjab has previously experienced periods of deficient rainfall, but this year’s August was exceptionally wet. The last record for high August rainfall was in 2008, when the state recorded 46% above the LPA. This year, the monsoon activity, combined with a recent western disturbance, led to extremely heavy rains across the state, resulting in the highest August rainfall in the last 25 years.

Punjab is currently dealing with severe flooding caused by the swollen Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers, as well as seasonal rivulets. The worst-affected districts include Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Kapurthala, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Hoshiarpur, and Amritsar. These areas are experiencing extensive waterlogging, disruption of normal life, and potential damage to infrastructure and crops.

According to the IMD, 18 out of 23 districts in the state received above-average rainfall, while some districts, such as Patiala and Fatehgarh Sahib, saw slightly below-average rain. Gurdaspur was the wettest district, recording 577 mm of rainfall in August, which is 181% above the LPA. Jalandhar received 479.9 mm (178% above normal), Pathankot 944.2 mm (152% above normal), and Tarn Taran 208 mm (139% above normal).

Other districts also saw heavy rain: Fazilka received 146.8 mm (115% above normal), Ferozepur 170.6 mm (129% above normal), Barnala 265.2 mm (113% above normal), Amritsar 226.8 mm (40% above normal), and Hoshiarpur 360.6 mm (74% above normal). Districts like Sangrur (87%), Moga (86%), Ludhiana (66%), and Rupnagar (63%) also recorded higher than normal rainfall.

In contrast, July had been drier than usual. Punjab had recorded 9% less rainfall than the LPA, with Rupnagar, Sangrur, Barnala, Mohali, SBS Nagar, and Hoshiarpur receiving the least rain. June had also seen below-average rainfall, with 28% less than normal.

IMD officials explained that although rainfall until August 24 was below normal, the later arrival of a western disturbance brought heavy rains across the state. Surender Paul, director of IMD Chandigarh, said that this, combined with active monsoon conditions, led to record-breaking rainfall in August.

Neighbouring Haryana also saw above-normal rainfall, receiving 194.5 mm against the average of 147.7 mm, marking a 32% rise. Excess rainfall in Haryana was reported in districts like Fatehabad (252%), Gurugram (24%), Hisar (68%), and Faridabad (31%).

Red alert issued as rain continues

Rainfall continued in Punjab on Sunday, worsening the flooding situation. The IMD issued a red alert for the next 36-48 hours, warning of very heavy to extremely heavy rain in many areas. Officials cautioned that rivers and rivulets could flood further, mudslides could occur in hilly catchment areas, and waterlogging might affect low-lying urban areas. Vulnerable structures may also sustain damage due to the intensity of the rainfall.

Residents living near rivers and flood-prone areas have been advised to stay alert and follow safety instructions issued by authorities. Emergency services and disaster management teams are on high alert to respond quickly to any incidents caused by heavy rain.

In the 24 hours leading up to 8:30 am on Sunday, several districts recorded heavy rainfall: Amritsar 60.9 mm, Ludhiana 30.4 mm, Bathinda 62 mm, Faridkot 48.8 mm, Gurdaspur 9.6 mm, Fazilka 16.5 mm, Ferozepur 46 mm, Mansa 17 mm, Mohali 2.5 mm, and Anandpur Sahib 28 mm. From 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, further rainfall was recorded: Amritsar 18 mm, Ludhiana 16.7 mm, Patiala 80 mm, Faridkot 5 mm, Ferozepur 4.5 mm, Hoshiarpur 26 mm, Mansa 14 mm, and Anandpur Sahib 20 mm.

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Authorities have warned that continued rainfall could increase the risk of flooding, landslides, and waterlogging, particularly in already affected districts. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors when possible, and remain vigilant near rivers, streams, and low-lying areas. Emergency services are prepared to provide rescue, relief, and medical assistance as needed.

The record rainfall highlights the growing intensity of monsoon rains in the region and the need for proactive disaster management. Officials have emphasized monitoring water levels in rivers and rivulets, issuing timely alerts, and ensuring that residents in vulnerable areas are relocated to safe locations if required.

Punjab’s wettest August in 25 years underlines the challenges posed by climate variations and extreme weather events. The state government, along with disaster management authorities, continues to work tirelessly to protect lives, provide relief, and support communities affected by floods and heavy rainfall.