Humidity rises as monsoon edges closer

As the paddy-sowing season enters a critical phase, Ludhiana farmers are keeping a close eye on the skies. After weeks of oppressive heat and haze, the city has finally started seeing signs of monsoon activity, offering a much-needed respite and a timely boost for agricultural operations.

Today’s weather remained mostly cloudy, with the maximum temperature being 35.8 degrees Celsius, while the minimum being 27.6 °C with 44 per cent humidity. Rain showers are expected to intensify over the coming week as Meteorological Centre, Chandigarh, has predicted light to moderate rainfall in Ludhiana in the coming days.

“This transition is crucial for paddy cultivators, many of whom have delayed transplanting due to dry soil conditions and high daytime temperatures. The anticipated rainfall will not only ease irrigation demands but also help lower ambient temperatures, which have consistently hovered around 40°C in recent days,” said Malkiat Singh, a farmer.

“The breeze is gentle and the skies are kind, but you can feel the stickiness in the air,” said Harpreet Kaur, a resident of Model Town, Ludhiana, describing the city’s current weather. “It’s pleasant enough to step out, but the rising humidity makes you long for a proper monsoon shower.”

Experts from Punjab Agricultural University have advised farmers not to irrigate their crop or spray fertilisers in view of weather forecast. As rain in predicted in the coming days, so farmers should keep an eye on the weather forecast, said experts.