Residents of Chandigarh finally got a break from the sweltering heat and humidity as light rain showered the city on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that more wet weather is on the way, with the southwest monsoon expected to arrive soon. This welcome change comes after days of uncomfortable weather and fluctuating temperatures.
The city recorded 9.7 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours, ending Friday morning, followed by an additional 4.7 mm later in the day. The rainfall brought down the maximum temperature to 34.2 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees below normal. Nighttime temperatures also dropped slightly to 26.7 degrees. However, the high relative humidity level of 91% added a sticky, damp feel to the air throughout the day.
Despite the much-needed rain, Chandigarh’s seasonal rainfall since June 1 remains 63% below normal, according to IMD data. But there’s good news: consistent rainfall is expected over the next five days, which could help reduce this deficit.
The IMD’s latest forecast predicts partly cloudy skies with thunderstorms or rain for Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula from June 21 to 25. Daytime temperatures are expected to stay between 31 and 34 degrees, while nighttime temps will hover around 25 to 26 degrees.
These weather changes suggest that the monsoon is gradually making its way into the region. While Chandigarh typically sees monsoon rains by late June, this year’s early thunderstorms hint at a possible timely, if not slightly early, arrival. The southwest monsoon is eagerly awaited, bringing hope for more sustained rainfall.
Officials have advised residents to stay cautious during thunderstorms, especially in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging. Meanwhile, locals are relishing the cooler weather after enduring an unusually hot and dry start to June.
So far, Chandigarh has received 36.1 mm of rainfall this month. The recent showers have provided relief from the oppressive summer heat and raised expectations for more consistent monsoon rains in the coming days. With the monsoon approaching, the city is finally seeing a shift toward cooler, wetter weather—just in time to beat the peak of summer.
