Sudden Cold and Hail in Punjab; Crops Damaged in Multiple Districts

Punjab experienced sudden weather changes over the weekend, with heavy rain and hail affecting several districts and causing damage to standing wheat crops. The cold intensified following rain on March 15, prompting residents to retrieve warm clothing once again. On Monday, March 16, rainfall continued across cities including Jalandhar, Amritsar, Fazilka, Hoshiarpur, and Pathankot. Hailstorms were reported in Jalandhar city and Guraya, while Tanda Udmar in Hoshiarpur and parts of Fazilka also witnessed hail. In Amritsar, strong winds caused standing wheat crops to collapse in several fields, raising concerns among local farmers. The Chandigarh Meteorological Centre issued a yellow alert for Punjab and Chandigarh, warning of rainfall, lightning, and potential storms. Wind speeds are expected to range between 30 and 40 kilometers per hour. The rain and hail on March 15 led to a noticeable drop in temperatures. Compared to the previous day, the minimum temperature fell by 2.6°C in several areas of Punjab. Chandigarh also recorded a decrease of 2.5°C in its minimum temperature, reflecting the sharp weather changes affecting the region. Authorities have advised residents and farmers to remain cautious and take necessary precautions against the ongoing adverse weather conditions.