April feels like February: Unseasonal rain grips Punjab, Chandigarh; crop fears loom large

April feels like February: North India is reeling under unusual weather shift as winter-like conditions prevail in April with unseasonal rains, thunderstorms, gusty winds. 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts, warning of continued wet spells, thunderstorms and lightning activity across the region for Wednesday.

The effects of western disturbance are being strongly seen in the plain cities which are experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. 

Meanwhile, over 1.25 lakh acres of crops have been damaged due to rain, hailstorms and strong winds. Wheat crops, which were ready for harvesting, have suffered extensive losses in districts like Muktsar, Fazilka and Bathinda.

Amid existing global concerns like inflation, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, this unexpected return of winter-like weather has deepened uncertainty for many.

Farmers, especially, are worried as they evaluate the damage to their crops and wait for compensation and support.

For now, April feels more like January—leaving residents surprised and raising concerns among climate experts about the growing frequency of such extreme weather patterns.