Chandigarh: Weather conditions across Punjab and Chandigarh are expected to remain dry on May 16, with no chances of rainfall according to the Meteorological Centre, Chandigarh. Although maximum temperatures dropped slightly compared to Friday, heat levels are likely to increase again over the coming days.

Officials said the maximum temperature currently remains around 1.8 degrees Celsius below normal, while the highest temperature recorded in the state hovered close to 41°C. An advisory regarding protection from heatwave conditions had already been issued by the department at the end of April.

Heatwave Likely for Five Days From May 17

According to Surender Pal, Director of the Meteorological Centre, Chandigarh, weather conditions will remain mostly clear and dry across the region. Daytime temperatures are expected to rise gradually by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next five days.

Heatwave conditions are likely to affect several districts between May 17 and May 21. Areas including Fazilka, Faridkot, Muktsar, Bathinda and Mansa may experience intense heat from May 17 onward. The warning is expected to expand to districts such as Ferozepur, Moga, Barnala and Sangrur on May 18 and May 19.

Western Disturbance Active, But Rain Chances Low

The Meteorological Department stated that weather systems are currently changing over North India. Conditions are becoming favorable for the advancement of the Southwest Monsoon toward the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the South Bay of Bengal.

At the same time, a Western disturbance remains active near Pakistan and the Jammu–North Pakistan region. However, the cyclonic circulation earlier present over West Uttar Pradesh has weakened significantly, reducing any possibility of rainfall in Punjab and Chandigarh.

Temperature Crosses 40°C in One District

One district in Punjab recorded temperatures above 40°C, while most other districts remained below that mark. Amritsar witnessed the sharpest fall in temperature at 3.4 degrees, whereas Bathinda recorded a slight increase of 0.5 degrees.

Temperatures recorded across key cities included Chandigarh at 37.9°C, Ludhiana at 36.8°C, Patiala at 38.8°C, Bathinda Airport at 39.2°C, and Faridkot AWS at 39.9°C. Several other districts including Mohali, Ropar and Sri Anandpur Sahib recorded temperatures between 35°C and 37°C.

Heatwave Advisory Issued

Authorities have advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during afternoon hours, drink plenty of water and take precautions against rising temperatures. Experts warn that increasing heat conditions may also lead to higher electricity demand and water consumption across the region.