Intense heat takes break across Tricity with thunderstorms, moderate rains

Thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains lashed parts of the Tricity — Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula — along with adjoining areas on Tuesday, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing hot and humid conditions. Chandigarh recorded 2.2 mm of rainfall in nine hours between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm, while Panchkula received a higher share at 12.5 mm.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chandigarh, the maximum temperature in the city settled at 33.2 degree Celsius and the minimum at 24.4 degree Celsius — both being normal for the season. Humidity levels, however, remained on the higher side, with maximum relative humidity at 86 per cent and minimum at 65 per cent.

The seasonal rainfall total has now reached 1,037.9 mm in Chandigarh, reflecting a 26.6 per cent surplus over the normal.

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The IMD Chandigarh issued a short-term forecast on Tuesday, warning residents about sudden changes in weather conditions. It has predicted partly cloudy skies with chances of thunderstorms and lightning in the Tricity on September 17 and 18.

From September 19 onwards, skies are expected to turn clearer, with maximum temperatures gradually rising to 35 degree Celsius by September 21, while the minimum is likely to remain steady at 24 degree Celsius.