Chandigarh Heatwave Alert: Temperature likely to hit 41°C by Friday, IMD issues warning
Chandigarh weather update: Chandigarh recorded a maximum temperature of 38.1°C on Monday, slightly above normal levels, while the minimum temperature settled at 18.6°C, offering brief relief during the night. However, this respite is expected to be short-lived as temperatures are set to rise steadily over the coming days.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city and surrounding regions are likely to experience a significant increase in heat, with the mercury expected to reach up to 41°C by Friday. The department has also revised its earlier forecast, stating that heatwave conditions, initially predicted from Tuesday, began on Monday and are expected to persist until Friday.
Meteorologists have indicated that maximum temperatures across the region may rise by another 3 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next five days. Dry weather conditions prevailed across Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana on Monday, accompanied by a sharp drop in humidity levels, from 73% in the morning to just 19% by afternoon, signalling increasing dryness in the atmosphere.
Several parts of Haryana are already under heatwave conditions. Rohtak recorded 42.3°C while Karnal saw temperatures touch 40.7°C. Narnaul emerged as the hottest location in the state at 42°C, followed by Rohtak at 41.6°C, Sirsa at 40.6°C and Gurugram at 40.5°C.
In Punjab, Bathinda was the hottest city with 41.3°C, while Patiala and Ludhiana recorded 39.8°C and 39.4°C respectively. Temperatures across the state are currently running 3 to 4.5 degrees above normal.
Tuesday–Wednesday: Clear skies with temperatures ranging between 38°C and 39°C
Thursday: Partly cloudy skies; temperature likely to touch 40°C
Friday: Expected to be the hottest day, with the mercury reaching up to 41°C and night temperatures rising to around 23°C
The IMD has placed the region under a yellow alert, indicating that while the heat may be tolerable for the general population, it can pose health risks for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Residents are advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during afternoon hours, stay well-hydrated, and wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. Covering the head with a cloth, hat or umbrella while stepping out is also recommended.
Farmers have been advised to carry out irrigation during early morning or evening hours to protect crops from heat stress.
- PTC NEWS
