The last 24 hours, Punjab and Chandigarh have experienced a drop in temperature. The maximum temperature has decreased by an average of 1.8°C, though it still remains 3.1°C above normal. Meanwhile, a western disturbance, which passed through northern Pakistan, is now active as a cyclonic circulation over Jammu and Kashmir and nearby regions.
According to the Meteorological Department, dry weather is expected in Punjab for the next two days, with winds blowing at speeds of 15 to 25 km/h. However, there is no forecast for fog or rain until February 18. The highest temperature recorded yesterday was 25.6°C in Bathinda.
Typically, Punjab receives 10.2 mm of rainfall from February 1 to 12, but this year, only 0.5 mm of rain has been recorded, which is 95% below average. Out of 23 districts in the state, 12 have received no rainfall at all, while the remaining districts recorded only 0.1 to 0.2 mm of rain. Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Jalandhar, SBS Nagar, Fazilka, Muktsar, Faridkot, Bathinda, Barnala, Mansa, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Mohali remain completely dry.
Delhi-NCR is expected to experience strong surface winds today and tomorrow, providing some relief from rising temperatures. The minimum temperature is likely to be around 10°C, while the maximum may reach 27°C. However, the IMD predicts a rise in temperature after February 16, which could lead to increased heat, potentially affecting agricultural activities.
Parts of northern Rajasthan, northern Madhya Pradesh, western Uttar Pradesh, northern Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, daytime temperatures are up to 5°C above normal. Similar conditions are observed in northwestern and central India, with temperatures remaining higher than usual.
Winter Expected to End Sooner: The changing weather patterns are attributed to weak western disturbances and decreasing humidity levels. Additionally, reduced snowfall in the mountains is contributing to a faster decline in winter conditions. This year, the cold weather is expected to subside 10 to 12 days earlier than usual.
