Chandigarh: Punjab and Chandigarh are reeling under an intense heatwave, with the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh issuing a ‘yellow alert’ till May 24. According to the weather department, severe heatwave conditions are expected to continue across several districts of Punjab over the next few days due to extremely hot and dry winds blowing from Rajasthan and Pakistan.

On Monday, temperatures across Punjab rose sharply, climbing 3.1 degrees Celsius above normal. Bathinda emerged as the hottest district in the state, recording a scorching 47°C.

Heatwave Expected in 10 Districts

The heatwave is currently affecting major districts in the Malwa belt, where the impact of hot western and southwestern winds is being felt most severely. Weather officials stated that clear skies and the absence of active western disturbances have intensified solar heating across the region.

According to Dr. Shivinder Singh from the Meteorological Centre, Chandigarh, temperatures may rise by another 2 to 3 degrees in the coming days if dry weather conditions persist.

Punjab Power Demand Crosses 13,500 MW

The extreme heat has significantly increased electricity consumption in Punjab. On Monday, the state’s power demand touched 13,555 megawatts during daytime hours the highest so far this season.

Punjab generates nearly 4,500 MW internally, forcing the state to purchase around 9,000 MW from the central power pool to meet rising demand.

Chandigarh Administration Issues Heat Advisory

The Chandigarh Administration has advised residents to avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours. Hospitals have deployed additional staff to manage heat-related emergencies.

Government offices, schools, malls, hotels, and large commercial establishments have also been instructed to maintain air-conditioner temperatures between 24°C and 25°C to reduce power load and conserve energy.

Heatstroke Wards and Emergency Medical Arrangements

Special heatstroke wards have been established in government and recognized hospitals across Punjab. Authorities have directed hospitals to ensure round-the-clock availability of essential medicines and ORS packets for heatwave-related illnesses.

Residents can seek emergency medical help through the state helpline number 104.

Special Advisory for Schools

The Chandigarh Administration has also issued guidelines for schools to protect children from extreme heat. Schools have been asked to conduct outdoor activities only during cooler hours or in shaded areas and ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply on campus.

Teachers and staff have been instructed to immediately provide medical assistance if any child shows signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.

Heatwave Alert in 22 Districts Till May 23

The Meteorological Department has predicted heatwave conditions in 22 districts between May 20 and May 23. These include Ferozepur, Fazilka, Faridkot, Muktsar, Moga, Bathinda, Barnala, Mansa, Sangrur, Patiala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Mohali, Rupnagar, Kapurthala, and several adjoining regions.

When Will Rain Arrive in Punjab?

Weather experts say there is currently no immediate possibility of rainfall in Punjab. The southwest monsoon is expected to enter the state between June 30 and July 5, 2026.

The monsoon reaches Punjab through both the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea branches. However, meteorologists have warned that rainfall this season may remain below normal.