IMD warns of severe heatwave; temperature may touch 44 degrees Celsius in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana

The maximum temperatures over Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh are likely to rise by about 4 degrees Celsius in the next four to five days.

This heatwave will likely be at its peak between May 16 and 18. (File Photo)

The India Meteorological Department has warned of a severe heatwave in the coming days in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana, where the maximum temperature will likely touch 44-46 degrees Celsius. This heatwave will likely be at its peak between May 16 and 18.

Shivender Singh, a scientist with the IMD, said on Monday, “There will be temperature rises and heatwave conditions. And because there is going to be mainly dry weather with clear skies, the maximum temperatures over Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh are very likely to rise by about 4 degrees Celsius during the next four to five days.”

“As a result, temperatures over Chandigarh and some parts of southern Haryana and Punjab could reach 44-46 degrees Celsius between May 16 and 18,” the scientist further said. “Similarly temperatures over the northern parts of Haryana and Punjab, including Chandigarh, are expected to range from 41 to 44 degrees Celsius. This may lead to heatwave conditions over Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh between May 16 and 18.”

Story continues below this ad

On May 12, the maximum temperature recorded in Chandigarh was 37.5 degrees Celsius, while it was 38.2 degrees Celsius on May 11.

The IMD has suggested the following measures for the public during heatwaves:

Stay hydrated.
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours.
Wear light clothing and keep heads covered when under direct sun.
Stay updated with the latest weather advisories

Hina Rohtaki

Hina Rohtaki is a Special Correspondent with The Indian Express, Chandigarh. She covers Chandigarh administration and other cross beats. In this field for over a decade now, she has also received the prestigious Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award by the President of India in January 2020. She tweets @HinaRohtaki ... Read More

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram