Brace yourselves, folks, because the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has some news that might dampen spirits in Punjab and Haryana. Monsoon activity is set to continue with heavy rainfall expected over the next three to four days.
Yes, you read that right. More rain is on the way for regions that are already grappling with an excess of it. It’s like Mother Nature decided to hit the repeat button on the downpour.
Surinder Paul, head of IMD Chandigarh, shared that current weather systems point to widespread rainfall across North and West Punjab, and also North and South Haryana. This wet spell is likely to stick around until September 2. So, if you had outdoor plans, you might want to consider a rain check.
“There is a chance of heavy rainfall at a few places in North Punjab today, while parts of Western Punjab will also receive moderate to heavy showers,” Paul stated. He added that rain activity will continue in both Punjab and Haryana for the next few days. The situation could even worsen because these states are already soaking from excess rains.
Many districts have seen rainfall far above normal levels this monsoon season. We’re talking Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Sangrur, Mansa, and Moga. These areas experienced nearly eight to nine times the average rainfall between August 25 and 27 alone. That’s an insane amount of water, leading to flood-like conditions in low-lying areas.
The wet weather is not letting up anytime soon. It’s expected to continue over Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Rupnagar, Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib, Sangrur, Mansa, Bathinda, Ferozepur, and Fazilka in Punjab. And, of course, the adjoining districts of Haryana will also feel the impact. More rain, indeed.
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for Punjab and Haryana for Friday. Things escalate on Saturday when an Orange Alert takes effect for North and West Punjab, along with North and South Haryana. This means there’s a likelihood of heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated places. So, residents should absolutely prepare for significant downpours and potential disruptions due to the heavy rain.
Paul mentioned that rainfall activity should gradually decrease after September 2. But don’t put away your umbrellas just yet. There’s a possibility that another spell of monsoon showers could revive in the second half of September, specifically around September 18 to 20. It seems the monsoon isn’t quite ready to say goodbye.
Until then, expect intermittent rain. Given the massive amount of excess rainfall already recorded, even moderate showers could add to the difficulties for residents. Staying informed and taking necessary precautions during this period of heavy rain is crucial.
So, if you live in these areas, make sure your drainage systems are clear, stay updated on local weather alerts, and plan accordingly. The coming days promise to be very wet, with heavy rain being the dominant forecast.