Monsoon Arrives Early in Punjab, But Rainfall Lags Behind

The monsoon arrived in Punjab seven days early, but rainfall has not matched expectations so far. As a result, hot and humid conditions persist. While Punjab has recorded 3 percent more rainfall than normal so far in July, Chandigarh has recorded 71 percent less rainfall than average. However, the maximum temperature has dropped by three degrees Celsius, which is currently 2.9 degrees below normal. Faridkot recorded a temperature of 38.9 degrees. According to the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, a heavy rainfall warning has been issued for some areas for the next three days starting today (July 9).

According to the Meteorological Department, rain is expected in all districts of the state today. However, five districts — Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar, and Mohali — are expected to receive heavy rainfall. In view of this, people have been advised to stay alert. Meanwhile, cloudy weather and rain are also expected in Chandigarh. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall warning for Himachal Pradesh until July 12. According to the department, isolated heavy rainfall is expected in the districts of Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur, Sirmaur, and Shimla. This raises concerns about waterlogging and landslides in these areas.

Additionally, after the water level of the Beas river rose due to rain in Mandi on Wednesday, tourists have been urged to stay away from the riverbanks. Traffic was disrupted near Mangal on the old Pathankot-Mandi National Highway due to landslide debris. Due to the heat and humidity, electricity demand in Punjab was recorded at 15,405 megawatts. Of this, 4,905 megawatts was generated by the state's own power plants, while 10,518 megawatts was drawn from the national grid. The government is currently meeting demand by purchasing additional power; however, if this situation continues, it could put pressure on the power system.

According to the latest data from the BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board), the inflow at Bhakra Dam was recorded at 39,834 cusecs and at Pong Dam at 21,459 cusecs. At the same time, 24,287 cusecs of water is being released from Bhakra Dam and 17,219 cusecs from Pong Dam. Currently, the water level at Bhakra Dam is 1,568.66 feet and at Pong Dam it is 1,318.96 feet — both well below the maximum designated water levels for the respective dams. The maximum warning level for Bhakra Dam is set at 1,680 feet and for Pong Dam at 1,390 feet