Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Residents across Punjab and Chandigarh are bracing for a spell of intense heat after the Meteorological Department issued a yellow alert for four days, from April 21 to April 24, warning of rising temperatures and persistently warm nights.
Weather data shows a noticeable increase in temperatures, now running over 3 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average. More than 20 districts in Punjab are already witnessing temperatures above 35°C, signaling the onset of heatwave-like conditions in several areas.
Among the hottest locations, Bathinda recorded a high of 41°C, while Ludhiana and Patiala hovered close to 40°C. Chandigarh also reported a sharp rise, with the mercury touching 38.1°C. Other cities such as Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Pathankot recorded temperatures in the upper 30s, adding to the widespread heat stress.
Officials have identified Ludhiana, Nawanshahr, Rupnagar, Sangrur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mohali, and Patiala as districts that may experience more intense heatwave conditions in isolated pockets. The heat is expected to build up early in the day and remain severe during the afternoon hours, especially between noon and 4 pm.
No rainfall is forecast during this period, which is likely to prolong the dry and hot conditions. However, a western disturbance over the Himalayan region is expected to become active around April 23, which may slightly influence weather patterns later in the week.
Health authorities have issued guidelines advising people to limit outdoor activities, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours. Medical facilities have also enhanced their preparedness, with special arrangements in hospitals to manage heat-related cases.
With temperatures expected to remain elevated even at night, officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to cope with the ongoing heatwave conditions.
