Chandigarh: Large parts of Punjab and Chandigarh continue to grapple with oppressive heat, even as weather authorities warn of thunderstorms and gusty winds over the next few days.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert from April 27 to April 30, cautioning residents about a combination of heatwave conditions, warm nights, and sudden weather changes. Strong winds, potentially reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h, along with lightning and scattered rainfall, are expected in several regions.
Despite a slight dip in temperature recently, readings remain significantly above seasonal averages. Bathinda recorded the highest temperature in the state at around 43.8°C, making it the hottest location. Several other districts, including Ludhiana and Patiala, also reported temperatures crossing the 40°C mark, intensifying discomfort for residents.
Weather officials have indicated that isolated areas such as Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Fazilka, Muktsar, Bathinda, and Mansa may experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Meanwhile, districts like Ferozepur, Faridkot, Moga, Ludhiana, Barnala, Sangrur, Fatehgarh Sahib, Patiala, and Mohali are likely to remain under heatwave conditions.
Meteorologists attribute the changing weather pattern to an active western disturbance influencing the region. While temperatures are expected to stabilise briefly, a gradual decline of a few degrees may follow due to incoming weather activity.
Experts have advised residents to remain cautious, limit exposure to direct sunlight, and stay alert for sudden storms. Although some relief from the heat is anticipated by early May, officials warn that rising temperatures could return shortly after, prolonging the challenging weather conditions.
