CHANDIGARH, May 21 — The intense heat wave sweeping across northwestern India is expected to bring a brief period of relief on May 22, with the India Meteorological Department affirming the possibility of rainfall and thunderstorms in several parts of Punjab.
According to an official weather bulletin issued on May 21, isolated to scattered light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, is anticipated over the state. However, meteorological officials maintained that the region remains under an orange alert, with severe heat wave conditions projected to persist at many places across Punjab and Haryana over the next seven days.
The changing weather system stems from an upper air cyclonic circulation currently sitting over Punjab and adjoining Pakistan at 900 meters above sea level, alongside another cyclonic circulation resting over north Haryana. Weather experts asserted that these developments will likely trigger localized dust storms, thunderstorms, and strong winds in both states on May 22.
The incoming precipitation follows localized weather activity in the state during the past 24 hours, during which Faridkot district recorded 0.9 mm of rain. The minor precipitation brings notable relief to the district, which had registered the highest maximum temperature in Punjab this season just two days prior, touching 47.3 degrees Celsius. While parts of Punjab experienced very light showers, neighboring Haryana saw completely dry weather over the last 24 hours, though both states reported warm night conditions and gusty winds.
Regional precipitation records indicate that Punjab has received 9.3 mm of rain during May so far, falling short of its long period average of 12.2 mm by 24 percent. In contrast, Haryana has recorded a 16 percent rainfall surplus for the month, accumulating 14.3 mm against its long period average of 12.3 mm. Officials declared that cumulative seasonal rainfall since March 1 remains above average in both states, showing a nine percent increase in Punjab and a 25 percent increase in Haryana.
The influence of neighboring weather setups is also expected to impact surrounding states. The weather department declared that similar isolated rainfall, thunder, and lightning are likely over Himachal Pradesh and western Rajasthan on May 22, and over Uttarakhand on May 22 and 23. Meanwhile, parts of Jammu and Kashmir are bracing for a potential thundersquall on May 22 with wind speeds reaching up to 70 kmph, alongside possible hailstorms in isolated pockets of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.
