As the festival of lights approaches, a common question is being asked across Punjab will this Diwali finally bring the onset of winter? With temperatures slowly dipping and early morning fog making a brief appearance in some districts, signs suggest that the state might soon experience its first real taste of winter.
According to the Meteorological Department, the temperature in most parts of Punjab, including Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, and Amritsar, has begun to fall gradually. The maximum temperature is currently hovering between 32°C and 34°C, while the minimum has dropped to around 19°C in several areas.
Though the difference between day and night temperatures remains wide, the cool breeze and early morning nip indicate that the transition toward winter has begun. Experts say that by the time Diwali arrives which falls on October 20 this year nights are expected to become cooler. A western disturbance might also affect the northern plains in the coming days, bringing slight cloud cover and further lowering the mercury. However, no major rainfall is predicted during the festive week.
For farmers, this gradual cooling is a welcome change. The drop in temperature helps in the proper growth of crops like wheat and mustard, which are sown soon after Diwali. Meanwhile, city residents are looking forward to the comfort of mild weather during festive shopping and evening gatherings.
Meteorologists predict that Punjab will start feeling a noticeable chill by the last week of October. If conditions remain stable, the first week of November could officially mark the beginning of the winter season in the state.
So, while Diwali may not bring a sudden cold wave, it will likely usher in the much-awaited transition from the warm post-monsoon days to the cozy winter nights Punjab is known for.