Chandigarh: A spell of unseasonal heat continues to scorch Punjab as daytime and nighttime temperatures remain noticeably higher than the seasonal norm. The state is currently experiencing temperatures approximately 2.5°C above the average for this time of year, with Mansa district emerging as the hottest spot on the map.
According to data collected over the last 24 hours, the maximum temperature in Mansa surged to a sweltering 38.3°C, placing it significantly above what is typically expected in late September. On average, temperatures across Punjab have risen by 1.3°C since Friday, signaling an extended period of above-normal heat.
Nighttime temperatures have also trended unusually high, with minimum readings clocking in nearly 3°C above average. Several parts of the state reported night temperatures ranging between 21°C and 26°C—levels more typical of summer than the onset of autumn.
City-Wise Heat Surge
Saturday saw noticeable temperature hikes across key urban centers:
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Bathinda recorded 36.9°C, up 1.8°C.
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Ludhiana reached 36.4°C, marking a 1.2°C increase.
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Amritsar climbed to 35.2°C, rising 1.1°C.
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Pathankot, meanwhile, registered a sharp spike of 3.3°C, hitting 35.8°C.
Meteorological experts attribute this warming trend to the absence of monsoon activity and persistent dry weather across the region.
Forecast: Hot and Dry Conditions to Persist
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has ruled out the possibility of rainfall across Punjab for the coming week. The prolonged dry spell is expected to keep temperatures on the higher side through October 2.
Forecast projections suggest that southwestern districts will bear the brunt of the heat, with maximum temperatures likely to range between 34°C and 36°C. Central Punjab may see daytime highs from 32°C to 34°C, while the northern and eastern regions could remain slightly cooler, hovering between 30°C and 32°C.
On the nighttime front, minimum temperatures are expected to settle between:
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20°C to 22°C in the southwest,
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18°C to 20°C across central and eastern regions, and
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16°C to 18°C in parts of Pathankot and nearby hilly areas.
Agricultural Concerns Mount
The extended period of warmth and lack of rainfall is raising concerns among farmers, especially in areas where moisture-sensitive crops are at a crucial stage. Experts warn that if the dry weather persists, irrigation demands will increase, potentially stressing groundwater resources.
As Punjab continues to bake under an unusually hot sun, residents and authorities alike are being advised to take precautions, stay hydrated, and monitor weather updates closely in the days ahead.
