Heavy rain lashes Punjab, Haryana
After heavy rain lashed parts of Punjab and Haryana today, weather experts are predicting continued rainfall across these regions throughout September. The monsoon, which resumed on September 2, is expected to bring further relief from the recent heatwave that saw temperatures soar close to 37°C in some areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, dust storms, lightning and gusty winds over the coming days. The weather pattern is particularly crucial for the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on timely rainfall for good crop yields.
According to Surinder Paul, Director of the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, normal to above-normal rainfall is expected in the second week of September.
Punjab received 291.5 mm rainfall by September 4, compared to the average 378.6 mm (22 per cent deficit). Haryana, where average rainfall is 365.4 mm, has received 317.5 mm rainfall (13 per cent deficit). Chandigarh, which typically witnesses 733 mm annual rainfall, has recorded 571.9 mm rain, also reflecting a 22 per cent deficit.