The weather in Punjab continues to remain clear, with no major change in temperature observed. According to the Meteorological Department, similar weather conditions are expected to persist over the next few days. Although a western disturbance may become active around Diwali, its impact will not be seen in Punjab, and there will be no significant drop in temperature.
However, amid this stable weather, air quality has begun to deteriorate. In most cities across the state, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 100, prompting the issuance of yellow alerts in several areas. Amritsar remains the only city where the AQI is still below 100. Experts attribute the worsening air quality mainly to a phenomenon known as “thermal inversion.”
What is Thermal Inversion?
Under normal conditions, air temperature decreases with altitude. Warm air near the surface rises, carrying pollutants upward and keeping the atmosphere relatively clean. But during thermal inversion, this process reverses. The air near the surface becomes cooler, while the layer above remains comparatively warmer.
This warmer upper layer acts like a lid, trapping the cooler air below. As a result, dust, smoke, and gases in the lower layer cannot disperse upward. Consequently, the lower atmosphere becomes filled with pollutants, and the combination of fog and smoke leads to the formation of smog.
The Meteorological Department has stated that such conditions are likely to persist for the next few days. Experts have advised residents to limit outdoor activities during morning and evening hours and to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from air pollution.
City-wise Weather Update:
Amritsar: Clear skies with plenty of sunshine. Temperatures expected between 19°C and 30°C.
Jalandhar: Clear and sunny weather. Temperatures likely to range from 19°C to 31°C.
Ludhiana: Clear skies and sunshine expected. Temperature to stay between 20°C and 31°C.
Patiala: Clear weather with bright sunshine. Temperature between 20°C and 33°C.
Mohali: Clear skies and sunny weather. Temperature expected to range from 22°C to 31°C.
AQI IN DIFFERENT CITIES
1. Jalandhar: 164
2. Khanna: 280
3. Ludhiana: 134
4. Mandi: 154
5. Patiala: 122
6. Roopnagar: 305
