Late-Night Rain Triggers 3.3°C Temperature Drop in Punjab, More Showers Expected This Weekend
Chandigarh: A late-night downpour across Punjab on Monday and Tuesday resulted in a significant drop in minimum temperatures across the region, with an average decline of 3.3°C recorded. The unexpected rain brought relief from the warm conditions, with many cities experiencing sub-20°C temperatures by Tuesday morning. According to the Meteorological Department, this temperature dip is largely due to the widespread rain that swept through several districts overnight.
The Meteorological Department reported substantial rainfall over the past 24 hours in key cities, with Patiala recording the highest rainfall at 23.3mm, followed by 19mm in Fatehgarh Sahib, 17.6mm in Amritsar, 16.5mm in Jalandhar, and 12.5mm in Gurdaspur. The lowest temperature was recorded in Amritsar, which dropped to 18.3°C, marking a noticeable change in the region’s weather pattern. Most cities across Punjab reported temperatures below 20°C on Tuesday morning, offering a clear sign of the season’s shift.
Cooler Days Ahead as Western Disturbance Looms
The Meteorological Department has forecast that Punjab’s brief spell of rain could lead to further changes in the coming days. A new Western Disturbance is expected to affect the region starting Saturday, potentially bringing more showers and a further decline in temperatures. The disturbance, likely to impact weather conditions over the weekend and into Monday, could see more widespread rainfall across the state.
“The influence of the Western Disturbance will start becoming apparent from Saturday,” said a senior official from the Meteorological Department. “This system is expected to bring a new wave of rain across Punjab, with cooler temperatures to follow.”
Rain and Temperature Data Across Punjab
In Patiala, a hefty 23.3mm of rain was recorded overnight, while Amritsar and Fatehgarh Sahib received 17.6mm and 19mm, respectively. Jalandhar also saw significant precipitation, registering 16.5mm, while Gurdaspur recorded a comparatively lower figure of 12.5mm. The rain was widespread, cooling the state significantly after a period of warmer days. Residents in several cities woke up to temperatures below 20°C, with Amritsar’s low of 18.3°C setting the trend.
The sudden dip in temperature came as a pleasant surprise to many, especially with the start of October typically bringing warmer days. The clear skies forecasted for the next few days are expected to maintain normal temperatures, but as the weekend approaches, the influence of the Western Disturbance could introduce fresh changes to the current weather pattern.
Western Disturbance Impact and Further Rain
Western Disturbances, which are common weather systems during the winter months, bring moisture-laden winds from the Mediterranean, often causing rainfall and cooler weather in northern India. The Meteorological Department’s forecast suggests that the upcoming disturbance could bring another round of rain starting Saturday, extending through to Monday. This could further drive down temperatures, potentially marking an early onset of colder weather for the region.
Residents across Punjab are advised to prepare for a cooler weekend, as the anticipated showers could lead to lower temperatures across most cities. With rain expected over the next few days, people are also being urged to keep an eye on the weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to stay warm.
Previous Weather Trends and Current Forecast
While October in Punjab typically starts with moderate temperatures, this sudden spell of rain and the associated temperature dip signals a shift toward cooler weather conditions earlier than expected. The Meteorological Department’s prediction of further rain this weekend could potentially result in an extended period of cooler temperatures, offering relief to residents from the lingering warmth of early October.
The forecasted rain due to the Western Disturbance is expected to bring more widespread precipitation, affecting most parts of the state, including rural and urban areas alike. Farmers in the region, who are currently preparing for the Rabi season, are particularly advised to monitor weather reports closely, as the additional rain could impact crop preparations.
Conclusion
With a 3.3°C drop in minimum temperatures across Punjab, the late-night rain has introduced a cooler climate across the state, signaling the transition to autumn. The anticipated arrival of another Western Disturbance over the weekend could bring more rain and further lower temperatures, setting the stage for a cooler stretch ahead. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather reports as Punjab prepares for another bout of rain and a potential continuation of the cooler trend.