Yellow Alert Reissued as Western Disturbance Targets Tricity from Thursday
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula, warning of a fresh western disturbance set to influence weather conditions over the next four days. This alert follows a similar system last week, highlighting a pattern of repeated atmospheric activity typical of the pre-monsoon season.
Current Weather Conditions and Temperature Trends
In recent observations, the Tricity region has experienced warmer-than-usual nights, with Mohali recording a minimum temperature of 17.9°C, making it the warmest night in Punjab and the second warmest across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. Chandigarh's minimum temperature settled at 14.9°C, close to normal, while the maximum reached 29.4°C. Maximum temperatures have been on the rise, with Chandigarh hitting 31.2°C, an increase of 1.8°C from the previous day, and Punjab averaging 2.4°C above normal.
Relative humidity levels in Chandigarh ranged between 85% and 63%, indicating increasing moisture in the atmosphere, which sets the stage for the incoming weather system.
Detailed Forecast for the Coming Days
The IMD predicts thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds at 30-40 kmph with a partly cloudy sky for Thursday and Friday. Conditions are expected to become more favorable for light rainfall and thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds at 50-60 kmph towards the weekend, specifically on Sunday and Monday, under the influence of the western disturbance.
From March 25 onwards, light rain is likely at isolated places, increasing to a few places on March 26, 27, 29, and 30. The five-day forecast for the Tricity indicates a gradual dip in temperatures, with maximums hovering between 31°C and 28°C and minimums between 19°C and 17°C.
Understanding the Western Disturbance Effect
Meteorologists attribute the fluctuating weather to successive western disturbances—weather systems originating over the Mediterranean region that travel eastwards, bringing clouds, rain, and occasional thunderstorms to north India. These repeated spells are preventing a sharp rise in daytime temperatures while pushing up night temperatures due to increased cloud cover and moisture.
What Residents Can Expect
While the next two days may remain largely dry with partial cloudiness, the yellow alert signals the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds as the system becomes active. Residents should prepare for brief spells of rain, cloud build-up, and marginal cooling towards the weekend.
Overall, the Tricity is set for a dynamic weather phase, with alternating warm conditions and intermittent rainfall driven by back-to-back western disturbances, ensuring a mix of weather elements over the coming days.
