Gurpreet Singh :- A severe heatwave has tightened its grip over Punjab and Chandigarh, with temperatures crossing the 40°C mark in more than ten districts. Bathinda emerged as the hottest location on Thursday, recording a maximum temperature of 44°C—around 4 degrees above normal and the highest so far this season.
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for the next two days, warning of continued heatwave conditions. Notably, several regions, including Chandigarh, are also expected to experience unusually warm nights, offering little respite from the soaring daytime temperatures. However, relief may be on the horizon from April 26, with forecasts the possibility of rain and thunderstorms continuing until April 29.
Among other districts reporting high temperatures were Faridkot (42.0°C), Patiala (41.6°C), Bhakra Dam (41.1°C), Ludhiana (40.6°C), Gurdaspur (40.5°C), Ferozepur (40.2°C), Fazilka (40.2°C), Amritsar (40.1°C) and Chandigarh (40°C), indicating a widespread heatwave across the region.
The intense heat has led to a sharp surge in electricity demand, resulting in power cuts in several areas due to maintenance and load management. Both urban and rural residents are facing increasing difficulties amid rising temperatures and disrupted power supply.
Health authorities have advised people to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours and to stay well-hydrated. Precautions such as wearing light clothing and avoiding direct sun exposure are being emphasized to prevent heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke.
In response to the prevailing conditions, the Punjab Government has revised outpatient department (OPD) timings in government hospitals. Effective from April 16, 2026, OPDs will function from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, while registration counters will open at 7:30 am. The revised schedule will remain in effect until October 16, 2026, to safeguard both patients and healthcare staff from the extreme heat.
