Punjab, Chandigarh Heatwave: No Rain Till March 14

March 9, 2026

Punjab and Chandigarh are witnessing an early spell of intense heat in March, with temperatures rising significantly above normal levels. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the region is likely to experience clear skies and dry weather with no significant rainfall expected until around March 13–14, leading to rising daytime temperatures and heatwave-like conditions.

Weather officials say the mercury in many areas of Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh has already climbed around 6°C above the seasonal average, indicating an early onset of summer conditions.

Temperatures 6°C above normal

Recent weather observations show that maximum temperatures across Punjab are hovering between 31°C and 33°C, which is significantly higher than the normal average for early March.

Similarly, Chandigarh recorded a maximum temperature of about 33.1°C, roughly 8°C above normal, making it one of the hottest early-March days in recent years.

Minimum temperatures are also unusually high, ranging between 16°C and 21°C, about 4–7°C above normal across many locations in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh.

Meteorologists attribute this sudden rise in temperature to persistent dry weather and the absence of any strong western disturbance affecting the region.

No rain expected till March 14

According to IMD forecasts, dry weather conditions will continue in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh for the next several days, with clear skies dominating the region.

The lack of rainfall means daytime temperatures are expected to gradually increase by 2–3°C over the next few days, intensifying the heat further.

Weather experts say that no significant rainfall activity is likely until at least mid-March, meaning residents may continue to experience bright sunshine and warm afternoons.

Impact on daily life and agriculture

The sudden rise in temperature has begun affecting daily routines. With clear skies and strong sunshine during the day, people are experiencing summer-like conditions much earlier than usual.

Health experts advise residents to:

• Stay hydrated and drink sufficient water

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during afternoon hours

• Wear light cotton clothing

• Take extra care of children and elderly people

Farmers have also been advised to irrigate crops during early morning or evening hours to reduce heat stress on crops caused by the sudden temperature spike.

Early summer trend likely this year

Meteorological experts note that northwest India may witness above-normal temperatures during the March–May period, which could lead to more frequent heatwave days across the region.

While temperatures may fluctuate later due to possible western disturbances, the current trend suggests that the region could experience an early and hotter summer season compared to previous years.