Chandigarh witnessed significant rainfall on Tuesday, with 40 millimeters recorded within a 12-hour period, making it the second highest single-day January precipitation in the city over the past nine years. According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this substantial downpour highlights notable weather activity for the region during this time of year.
Detailed Rainfall Observations and Historical Context
The rainfall was measured at the IMD observatory located in Sector 39-C between 8:30 AM and 8:30 PM. IMD records indicate that the only higher January rainfall during this period occurred on January 23, 2022, when Chandigarh received 45.9 mm of rain. Looking further back, the highest January rainfall in the past 15 years was recorded on January 7, 2017, when an impressive 65 mm of rain lashed the city, setting a benchmark for winter precipitation.
Temperature and Humidity Levels During the Event
As per observations from the Chandigarh Weather Observatory, the maximum temperature on Tuesday settled at 15.5 degrees Celsius, which was four degrees below the normal range for this time of year. Conversely, the minimum temperature was recorded at 10.1 degrees Celsius, two degrees above normal. High humidity levels accompanied the rain, with maximum relative humidity reaching 91 percent and minimum relative humidity at 66 percent. This combination resulted in a cold and damp day across Chandigarh and its surrounding areas, affecting daily activities and comfort levels.
Meteorological Causes and Weather Forecast
Meteorologists have attributed the widespread rainfall to the influence of a western disturbance, a common weather system that brings precipitation to northern India during winter months. This disturbance also led to cloudy skies and isolated thunderstorm activity over the Tricity, including Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has forecast partly cloudy conditions with chances of thunderstorms or light rain on Wednesday. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 16 degrees Celsius, while the minimum is expected to be near 9 degrees Celsius.
Upcoming Weather Trends and Temperature Projections
From Thursday onwards, weather conditions are expected to improve significantly. Mostly clear skies are predicted for Thursday, with a gradual rise in temperatures. Day temperatures are likely to climb to around 19 degrees Celsius on Thursday and further increase to 20 degrees Celsius on Friday and Saturday. Night temperatures may range between 8 degrees Celsius and 10 degrees Celsius during this period. By Sunday, the maximum temperature is expected to rise further to around 22 degrees Celsius, under partly cloudy skies, indicating a return to more typical winter weather patterns for the region.
This rainfall event underscores the variability of winter weather in Chandigarh and the importance of monitoring meteorological data for accurate forecasts and preparedness. Residents and authorities can use this information to plan activities and mitigate any potential impacts from such weather phenomena.
