Punjab, Chandigarh See April-Like Heat; Patiala Hits 33.6°C

March 10, 2026

Punjab and Chandigarh are witnessing unusually high temperatures for early March, with daytime heat resembling conditions normally seen in April or May. Bright sunshine and dry weather have pushed temperatures several degrees above normal across the region.

According to meteorological observations, many parts of Punjab recorded maximum temperatures above 32°C, while Patiala registered the highest temperature at around 33.6°C, making it one of the hottest places in the state.

Residents across cities such as Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Ferozepur have reported intense afternoon heat, forcing people to use fans and summer clothing much earlier than usual.

Temperatures Several Degrees Above Normal

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has stated that maximum temperatures in Punjab and neighbouring regions are significantly above the seasonal average. In some areas, temperatures are 4–7°C higher than normal, while certain places in north-western India are seeing even higher deviations.

Weather officials say that such conditions are uncommon for the first half of March, as the region typically experiences milder spring temperatures before the onset of summer.

Dry Weather Behind the Rising Mercury

One of the key reasons behind the early heat is the absence of rainfall and western disturbances in the region. Since the beginning of March, Punjab has received almost no rainfall, leading to completely dry conditions.

Normally, light rainfall during this period helps keep temperatures under control. However, the continued dry spell has allowed daytime temperatures to rise steadily across the state.

Meteorologists say that clear skies and strong sunshine are further contributing to the rapid warming of the land surface.

Other Cities Also Record High Temperatures

Besides Patiala, several other cities in Punjab have also recorded high temperatures.

• Ferozepur: around 33°C

• Ludhiana: about 32.8°C

• Amritsar: nearly 32.6°C

These readings are significantly higher than the typical early-March averages for the region, indicating an early arrival of summer-like conditions.

Similarly, Chandigarh recently recorded temperatures above 33°C, nearly 8°C higher than the seasonal average, making it the hottest day of the year so far in the city.

Forecast: Heat Likely to Continue

Weather experts predict that dry weather and bright sunshine will continue for the next few days, which means daytime temperatures may remain high. The IMD has also indicated that maximum temperatures across north-west India could increase slightly over the coming days before stabilising.

However, a possible change in weather patterns later in March could bring some relief through clouds or light rainfall.

Advisory for Residents

With temperatures rising earlier than usual, health experts recommend a few precautions:

• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water

• Avoid direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours

• Wear light cotton clothing

• Use sunscreen or protective gear when outdoors

If the current trend continues, Punjab and Chandigarh may experience a longer and hotter summer season this year, according to meteorologists.