Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab is heading into a fresh spell of intense summer heat, with the weather department warning of rising temperatures and heatwave conditions across multiple districts over the next several days.
The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has forecast dry weather across Punjab and the Union Territory, with no immediate chances of rainfall. Officials said the mercury has already shown a steady upward trend and is expected to rise further through the week.
Faridkot recorded the highest temperature in the state at 42.6 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest location so far. Patiala and Bathinda also crossed the 40-degree mark, highlighting the strengthening heat across southern and central parts of Punjab.
Chandigarh registered 39 degrees Celsius, while Ludhiana neared 40 degrees. Amritsar, Pathankot, Hoshiarpur and Rupnagar also reported noticeably warmer daytime conditions compared to previous days.
Meteorologists have placed several districts under a yellow alert beginning Sunday, warning that heatwave conditions may persist for at least five consecutive days.
The alert is expected to affect districts including Fazilka, Muktsar, Faridkot, Bathinda and Mansa initially, before expanding to Ferozepur, Moga, Barnala and Sangrur in the following days.
Weather officials said maximum temperatures could climb by another four to five degrees if dry winds continue and cloud activity remains absent.
The department noted that current atmospheric systems, including a weak western disturbance near Jammu and adjoining areas, are unlikely to provide significant weather relief.
Meanwhile, monsoon activity is progressing over southern parts of the country and may reach Kerala around May 26. However, Punjab is expected to wait until late June for any monsoon influence.
Experts said the coming fortnight is likely to remain dominated by dry and hot weather across much of northwest India, including Punjab and Haryana.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, drink sufficient water and avoid strenuous outdoor activity to reduce the risk of dehydration and heatstroke.
Health authorities have also urged extra care for children, senior citizens and people with medical conditions as prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can trigger serious health complications.
