Chandigarh: Punjab and Chandigarh are preparing for an intense spell of heat over the next three days after the Meteorological Department issued a fresh heatwave warning starting May 24. Officials have forecast harsh weather conditions across several districts, with temperatures likely to remain dangerously high until May 27 before a possible shift towards thunderstorms later in the week.
According to weather officials, heatwave conditions are expected to tighten their grip from May 25 to May 27, with mercury levels expected to climb further in several parts of the region. Relief may arrive on May 28 and 29, when thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of up to 50 kmph are likely to affect parts of Punjab and Chandigarh.
In response to the soaring temperatures, the Punjab government has revised timings for schools and government offices. From May 25 onward, institutions will function from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm to minimise exposure during peak afternoon heat. The revised schedule will remain in effect until further notice.
Chandigarh has gone a step further by announcing summer vacations for all schools from May 23 to June 30. Teachers, however, will be required to report on June 29 and 30 for administrative duties.
Authorities have also suspended all outdoor summer camp activities for children in Chandigarh. The Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights has directed schools to restrict students to indoor programmes conducted in safe, temperature-controlled spaces.
Weather data shows Punjab’s average maximum temperature has already risen by nearly one degree Celsius, remaining well above seasonal norms. Bathinda recorded the highest temperature in the state at 43.8°C, while several other districts continued to report severe daytime heat.
The forecast suggests partly cloudy skies on May 24 and 25, with temperatures hovering around 40°C to 41°C. Conditions are expected to worsen on May 26 and 27 as skies clear, pushing temperatures to between 42°C and 43°C. On May 28, temperatures could touch 44°C before rain-bearing systems begin to influence the region.
Health authorities have activated special medical support centres across Punjab and Chandigarh to treat heat-related illnesses. Residents have been advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated and avoid unnecessary physical exertion.
Officials say these measures are aimed at protecting public health as the region faces one of the harshest pre-monsoon heat spells of the season.
