Chandigarh: The impact of the intense nine-day summer phase known as ‘Nautapa’ has started showing across Punjab and Chandigarh, with temperatures rising sharply over the past 24 hours.
According to weather officials, temperatures have increased by 1.1 degrees Celsius, while several cities recorded temperatures 2 to 4 degrees above normal.
On Monday, Bathinda recorded the highest temperature in the state at 44.8 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh also witnessed severe heat, with the maximum temperature touching 42.7 degrees Celsius.
The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has issued a severe heatwave alert for Punjab till May 27, warning that conditions may worsen in several districts.
Punjab Govt Changes Office and School Timings
Amid the soaring temperatures, the Punjab government has revised timings for government offices and schools from Monday onwards.
All government schools and offices in Punjab and Chandigarh will now function from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. until further orders. Employees have also been instructed to take lunch breaks only after 1:30 p.m.
The government has directed all departments, divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners to strictly implement the revised timings.
Outdoor Activities Banned in Chandigarh Summer Camps
Authorities in Chandigarh have also restricted outdoor activities during school summer camps due to the extreme heat.
The Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights said children should only participate in activities in safe and cool environments during summer camps. Schools in Chandigarh remain closed till June 30.
Power Demand Crosses 12,000 MW
The intense heat has also pushed electricity consumption to record levels in Punjab.
On May 25, power demand reached 12,295 megawatts by 8:30 p.m. Punjab Powercom generated around 5,600 MW of electricity, while an additional 6,600 MW was purchased from the central power pool.
Just a day earlier, electricity demand had remained around 9,000 MW.
Severe Heatwave Likely in Several Districts
The weather department has predicted severe heatwave conditions in districts including Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Bathinda, Patiala and Mohali among others.
Weather May Change After May 28
Director of the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, Surinder Pal, said dry weather conditions are likely to continue till May 27.
However, light to moderate rainfall may occur at some places on May 29 and 30. The department has also warned of thunderstorms, dust storms, lightning and strong winds blowing at speeds of 40 to 50 kmph between May 28 and 30.
Officials said temperatures may rise by another 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next four days before falling by 3 to 5 degrees later in the week.