Punjab-Chandigarh Faces Intensifying Cold: Weather Department Issues Yellow Alert for Rain, Thunderstorms, and Strong Winds

Published on: 26 Jan 2026 at 08:39 AM

Published by: Gill Bikram

Punjab-Chandigarh Faces Intensifying Cold: Weather Department Issues Yellow Alert for Rain, Thunderstorms, and Strong Winds

The ongoing snowfall in the hills is directly impacting Punjab and Chandigarh, leading to a sharp rise in morning and evening chill. The weather department predicts major changes in the coming days, with colder conditions persisting amid active weather systems.

Today’s and Tomorrow’s Forecast (January 26-27)

Today (January 26): Light to moderate rain is likely in three Punjab districts—Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, and Rupnagar. Other areas will remain mostly clear for now.
Tomorrow (January 27): A Yellow Alert has been issued across the state for rain and thunderstorms. Expect strong winds gusting at 40-60 km/h during this period.

Temperature Trends

The lowest temperature in the state was recorded at 3.4°C in Firozpur, with Bathinda also gripped by severe cold waves. Over the next two days, temperatures may rise by 4-6°C, but post-rainfall, they could drop again by 3-5°C.

Impact of Western Disturbance

According to the weather department director, a western disturbance is active over Jammu-Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. A low-pressure area stretches from southern Punjab to Rajasthan, raising chances of dense fog and lightning from January 27-29. Another fresh western disturbance is expected to activate from January 30.

District-Wise Forecast for Next Three Days

January 27: Rain and strong winds in Majha, Doaba, and eastern Malwa districts (Ludhiana, Patiala, Mohali, etc.).
January 28: Rain may continue in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, and Rupnagar, while cold waves persist elsewhere.
January 29: Weather clears up and turns dry, but biting cold and cold waves will continue unabated.

Residents are advised to stay prepared for sudden weather shifts, especially with the Republic Day celebrations ongoing.