Cloud Cover and Western Disturbance Bring Temperature Drop in Chandigarh
The temperature drop has swept through Chandigarh, as an active Western Disturbance over the region brought a return of chilly weather on Sunday. The city’s maximum temperature dropped by a noticeable 6°C, plummeting from 28.7°C on Saturday to 22.3°C on Sunday, with cloudy skies setting the tone for a much cooler day.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the recorded temperature on Sunday, 22.3°C, was 0.2°C below the normal for the season and the lowest since February 7, when the temperature was last recorded at 22.1°C. The drop in temperature comes after a spell of relatively warmer weather, making the return of the chill particularly noticeable to residents and visitors.
The IMD Chandigarh Director, Surender Paul, explained that a weak Western Disturbance was currently active over the region, contributing to the cloudy conditions that caused the temperature drop. Though the chances of rain were low, the cloud cover played a key role in keeping the temperature significantly lower on Sunday. Additionally, trace amounts of rain experienced in parts of the city on Saturday added to the cooling effect observed on Sunday. Despite the cooling effects of the current disturbance, the IMD forecasts that its influence will subside on Monday. However, another Western Disturbance is expected to impact the city from Tuesday, bringing continued cloudy conditions. As the new disturbance strengthens, rain is anticipated on Wednesday and Thursday, with the possibility of more cooling in the region. Rainfall in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh could also enhance the cooling effect, further reducing temperatures in Chandigarh.
In terms of minimum temperatures, Chandigarh saw a slight dip from 12°C on Saturday to 10.4°C on Sunday, which is 0.2°C below the normal value for this time of year. The ongoing Western Disturbance has also led to a decrease in wind activity, which had been prevalent earlier in the week. This unexpected temperature plunge on Sunday has provided some relief for those who had been experiencing the unseasonably warm weather this February. The cloudy skies and cooler air have also made outdoor activities more pleasant for residents, with some taking advantage of the weather to visit popular spots like Sukhna Lake.
Looking ahead, Chandigarh’s weather forecast suggests that the maximum temperature over the next few days will remain between 25°C and 26°C, with the minimum temperature hovering around 11°C. The cloudy weather will persist, but the likelihood of rain will increase as the new disturbance strengthens mid-week. For those in the city, it is clear that the upcoming days will offer a shift in weather patterns. While temperatures will not fall drastically, the return of rain and cooler conditions could offer a welcome break from the previous spell of warmer weather.
