A severe thunderstorm accompanied by heavy rain and lightning lashed several cities in Punjab, causing widespread disruptions and plunging areas into darkness. The sudden weather event, which occurred in the evening, led to power outages, uprooted trees, and waterlogging in low-lying regions.
Impact on Major Cities
Major cities such as Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala were among the worst affected. In Ludhiana, strong winds and rain brought down trees and electric poles, disrupting traffic and power supply. Residents reported a sudden drop in temperature, providing relief from the heat but also causing inconvenience.
Amritsar and Jalandhar
In Amritsar, the storm caused damage to several vehicles and structures. The Golden Temple area saw waterlogging, though no major injuries were reported. Jalandhar experienced similar conditions, with many areas facing electricity cuts for hours. The local administration has been deployed to assess the damage and restore normalcy.
Patiala and Other Regions
Patiala witnessed heavy downpour accompanied by lightning strikes, leading to power failures in several localities. The meteorological department has predicted more rain in the coming days, advising residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Response and Precautions
The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has initiated restoration work, but officials warned that full recovery might take time due to the extent of damage. Emergency helplines have been activated, and citizens are urged to report any hazards like fallen wires or uprooted trees. The weather office has issued a warning for the next 24 hours, with possibilities of further thunderstorms and lightning.
This event highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather patterns in the region, prompting calls for better disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience.
