May 28 : 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Residents of Chandigarh and nearby regions have been advised to prepare for a major weather change as the India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, violent squalls, and possible hailstorms beginning today.
Weather officials said strong western disturbance activity is expected to impact Chandigarh, Punjab, and Haryana over the next 24 to 48 hours, bringing relief from the ongoing heatwave while also increasing the risk of severe weather-related disruption.
The department warned that thunderstorms may be accompanied by wind speeds of 60–70 kmph, squalls gusting up to 90 kmph, lightning activity, isolated hailstorms, and heavy rainfall in several districts.
Morning drizzle and cloudy skies were already reported across parts of the tricity region, signalling the beginning of the weather shift after days of intense heat conditions.
Meteorologists said the sudden transition from heatwave conditions to stormy weather could lead to waterlogging, traffic congestion, tree fall incidents, power cuts, and poor visibility during thunderstorms.
Authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours and remain indoors during lightning and hailstorm activity. Farmers and commuters were also asked to stay cautious as strong winds and hail may damage standing crops, vehicles, and temporary structures.
Officials urged citizens to secure loose outdoor objects, avoid parking vehicles under trees, stay away from electric poles during storms, and regularly monitor official weather advisories.
The active weather spell is expected to continue over the next couple of days before conditions gradually improve.