Several parts of North India are bracing for unsettled weather on Thursday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of rain, thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and the possibility of hailstorms in affected areas. Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi are among the regions facing heightened weather risks, while Himachal Pradesh is also likely to experience thunderstorms and lightning.
The changing weather is linked to an active western disturbance and associated atmospheric systems affecting north-western India. The conditions could bring a temporary dip in temperatures, but strong winds, lightning and hail may also disrupt daily activities and pose risks to crops, trees, power lines and vulnerable structures.
Punjab and Haryana Brace for Rain and Hail
Punjab and Haryana are among the key areas highlighted in the latest IMD warnings. The department’s October 15 bulletin lists the possibility of very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and hailstorms at isolated places in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi. The intensity of rainfall is likely to vary across districts, and not every location is expected to experience the same conditions.
Thunderstorms may be accompanied by winds reaching 40โ50 kmph, with gusts potentially touching 60 kmph at isolated locations. Such conditions can affect road travel, damage trees and horticultural plantations, and pose a threat to standing crops and electricity infrastructure. Farmers and residents in vulnerable areas are advised to follow local weather alerts.
Himachal Pradesh Likely to Witness Thunderstorms
In Himachal Pradesh, the IMD has forecast thunderstorms and lightning for October 15. The western Himalayan region is also expected to experience unsettled weather, although the precise impact may differ between districts and higher-altitude areas.
Residents, particularly those travelling through hilly roads, should remain cautious during periods of lightning or strong winds. People are advised to avoid exposed locations and refrain from standing beneath trees during thunderstorms.
Delhi-NCR and Western Uttar Pradesh Also on Alert
Delhi-NCR is expected to see cloudy skies, rain and thunderstorms, with strong winds possible during the day. The IMD warning for Delhi and Haryana includes the possibility of very heavy rain and isolated hailstorms. Parts of western Uttar Pradesh may also receive showers, while weather activity is expected to vary across the wider region.
Commuters should allow extra time for journeys and remain alert to local advisories, particularly where heavy showers could reduce visibility or cause temporary waterlogging.
What Is Driving the Weather Change?
The current spell is associated with a western disturbance and related weather systems influencing north-west India. Such systems can trigger rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds and abrupt changes in temperature beyond the main monsoon period. The western Himalayan region can also experience unsettled conditions as these systems move across the area.
Safety Advisory
Residents across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi-NCR should monitor the latest district-level forecasts and official warnings. During thunderstorms, people should seek shelter in a safe building, avoid open fields and rooftops, stay away from isolated trees and electric poles, and postpone unnecessary travel during severe weather.
The IMD’s warnings are location-specific, and conditions may change as the weather system develops. Residents should therefore rely on updated official advisories rather than assume that the same intensity of rain or hail will affect every area.
