Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula are bracing for a turbulent start to October, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting thunderstorms, heavy to very heavy rainfall, hail and gusty winds in the first half of next week. The alert, issued for October 5 to 7, has put both urban residents and farmers in the region on guard.
According to the IMD, the weather activity will intensify from October 5, with October 6 projected to witness the heaviest spell. Showers are expected to be widespread across the Tricity and adjoining areas, accompanied by winds clocking 40–50 km/h. Localized intense rainfall could further aggravate the situation, raising the possibility of waterlogging, traffic snarls and damage to property. The forecast has also flagged the risk of hailstorms, with Punjab likely to be hit on October 5 and 6, while Haryana could face similar conditions on October 6. Lightning strikes, a frequent hazard during such disturbances, are also expected during this period.
Meteorologists have traced the approaching bad weather to an active western disturbance advancing over northwest India. Originating from the Mediterranean region, this system is expected to interact with the Himalayan ranges and plains, leading to significant atmospheric instability. The result will be a surge in thunderstorms, heavy showers, hail and gusty winds across several states, including Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh. For the Tricity, skies will remain mostly clear until October 4. However, conditions will shift rapidly from October 5, when cloud cover and scattered showers begin. The wet spell will peak on October 6 and extend into October 7, before gradually easing.
The IMD alert comes at a crucial time for farmers in Punjab and Haryana, many of whom are in the middle of harvesting kharif crops. Heavy rains or hail at this stage could damage standing paddy and delay operations in the fields. Agricultural experts have urged farmers to make protective arrangements for their produce, especially in low-lying areas vulnerable to waterlogging. Urban centres like Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula face a different set of challenges. Sudden heavy downpours could overwhelm drainage systems, cause traffic disruptions and trigger incidents of tree falls or short-term power outages. Authorities have been advised to remain prepared for emergency response over the coming days.
On Thursday, the Tricity experienced calm and uneventful weather. Chandigarh recorded a maximum temperature of 35 °C and a minimum of 24.1 °C, close to the seasonal norm. Mohali and Panchkula reported similar conditions. Yet, with the disturbance expected to gather strength, residents are likely to see a dramatic change from clear skies to stormy conditions as the new week begins. The IMD has advised residents to monitor daily forecasts closely, avoid unnecessary travel during peak activity, and stay indoors during thunderstorms to minimize risks from lightning or falling objects.