Monsoon delayed, but rain relief likely across Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh till June 25
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 22, 2026: While the southwest monsoon remains behind schedule, residents of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh may receive some respite from the prevailing heat and humidity as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast intermittent rainfall across the region over the next few days.
According to the IMD, isolated to scattered rain showers are expected until June 25 under the influence of western disturbances. The weather system is also likely to bring thunderstorms, lightning activity and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, with occasional gusts up to 60 kmph.
The humid conditions are expected to continue despite the rainfall activity, while daytime temperatures may rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in the coming days. However, no heatwave conditions are currently anticipated.
Meteorologists estimate that the monsoon's arrival over Punjab and Chandigarh has been delayed by around three to four days. The weather department now expects the monsoon to reach the region by the end of June before gradually advancing towards central and western Haryana.
Officials explained that the monsoon's progress, which generally moves from east to west across northern India, is currently stalled over Bihar. However, atmospheric conditions are becoming increasingly favourable for its further advancement.
Weather experts have also pointed to the development of El Niño conditions as a factor that could influence the monsoon's behaviour this year. El Niño, caused by unusually warm ocean waters in the eastern Pacific, often disrupts global weather patterns and can lead to weaker or delayed monsoon activity over the Indian subcontinent.
Rainfall data for June so far reflects a noticeable shortfall across the region. Chandigarh has recorded only 39.3 mm of rainfall between June 1 and June 22, significantly below its normal average of 97.1 mm, resulting in a deficit of nearly 60 per cent.
Punjab has also experienced below-normal precipitation, receiving 27.9 mm of rainfall against the seasonal average of 31.9 mm, while Haryana has recorded 27.9 mm compared to its normal 33 mm during the same period.
The expected rainfall over the coming days is likely to provide temporary relief to residents and farmers awaiting the full onset of the monsoon, which remains crucial for agricultural activities across the region.