Chandigarh Rain : Rainfall greeted residents of Chandigarh and its surrounding areas early Friday, bringing down temperatures and intensifying the winter chill across the Tricity. Intermittent showers accompanied by thunderstorms lashed Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula, offering brief relief from dry conditions but making the weather colder and damp.
Rain activity began around 1 am and continued intermittently through the morning hours. Thick cloud cover hovered over the region overnight, keeping the sun hidden even after daybreak. The wet spell affected daily routines as commuters navigated rain-soaked roads and slower traffic movement during peak hours.
Several residents in Zirakpur and adjoining areas were seen braving the rain on their way to work, while visibility remained reduced due to persistent cloud cover and light drizzle in some pockets.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the ongoing wet spell is very likely to be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds at isolated places. Wind speeds may reach between 30 and 40 kmph, which could further intensify the prevailing cold wave conditions across the region.
According to the IMD forecast, rainfall is likely at a few places in Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula on January 23 and 24. Weather officials have advised residents to remain cautious, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when temperatures feel colder due to moisture and wind chill.
Meteorologists said minimum temperatures are expected to show no major change over the next three days. However, a gradual rise of around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius is likely thereafter as weather conditions begin to stabilise.
The combination of rain, cloud cover and gusty winds is expected to prolong cold wave-like conditions in the region. Health experts have advised people, especially children and the elderly, to take precautions against sudden temperature fluctuations and exposure to cold and damp weather.