On Friday, April 11, 2025, Punjab faced severe weather conditions as heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and thunderstorms swept across multiple districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange Alert for several regions, signaling the potential for significant weather-related disruptions.
In Ludhiana, the day began with breezy conditions and considerable cloudiness. The IMD forecasted widely separated thunderstorms, with temperatures reaching a high of 94°F (35°C) and a low of 65°F (18°C). The city was under an Orange Alert for hailstorms until 1:00 PM IST, with thunderstorms and hail likely to occur at isolated places. Residents were advised to follow guidelines issued by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) and to call emergency services at 112 if necessary.
The IMD’s warnings extended beyond Ludhiana. An Orange Alert for lightning was in effect until 12:00 PM IST for multiple districts, including Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Tarn Taran, Chandigarh, Fatehgarh Sahib, Malerkotla, Patiala, Rupnagar, Sangrur, S.A.S Nagar, SBS Nagar, and Panchkula. These areas were expected to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. The IMD advised residents to remain indoors during severe weather and to take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
The sudden shift in weather came after a period of intense heatwave conditions in the region. Earlier in the week, temperatures in Punjab had soared above 40°C, prompting the IMD to issue heatwave alerts. However, the arrival of a Western Disturbance brought much-needed relief in the form of rainfall and cooler temperatures. Despite this respite, the IMD warned of a potential resurgence of heatwave conditions in the coming days, particularly around April 14-15, urging residents to stay vigilant and prepared.
The adverse weather conditions had significant impacts on daily life and infrastructure. In several districts, heavy rainfall led to waterlogging in low-lying areas, disrupting traffic and causing delays. Agricultural activities were also affected, with concerns about potential damage to standing crops due to hailstorms. Local authorities were on high alert, coordinating with emergency services to address any incidents and to provide assistance to affected communities.
The IMD’s forecasts indicated that the severe weather conditions were expected to subside by April 12, with no further warnings issued for the following days. However, the department emphasized the importance of staying informed through official channels and adhering to safety advisories. Residents were encouraged to monitor weather updates and to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
In conclusion, the sudden onset of severe weather in Punjab on April 11, 2025, highlighted the region’s vulnerability to extreme climatic events. The IMD’s timely alerts and the proactive measures taken by local authorities played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of the adverse conditions. As the state continues to navigate the challenges posed by climate variability, the importance of preparedness and resilience remains paramount.