CHANDIGARH, June 29 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Punjab for Saturday, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning, with a yellow alert in place for the following three days.
The alert comes as the state has already witnessed light rain at several locations and heavy rainfall at isolated spots over the last 24 hours. The downpour has led to a significant drop in daytime temperatures, which dipped up to 4.4°C below normal, officials said.
According to an IMD bulletin released on Saturday, light to moderate rain is expected across many parts of Punjab on June 29, with the intensity likely to increase between June 30 and July 2, when most areas are predicted to receive showers. The department also warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places during this period, coupled with thunderstorms and lightning.
“We advise residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours,” said a senior IMD official. “Localised flooding in low-lying areas cannot be ruled out.”
Authorities have been asked to stay prepared for any weather-related disruptions, and farmers are also being advised to safeguard crops and equipment as the monsoon activity picks up.
The orange alert — indicating the need to be prepared — reflects the growing intensity of the southwest monsoon, which is advancing steadily across northern India.
