Punjab is currently experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 43 degrees Celsius across all 23 districts. Pathankot has recorded the highest temperature in the state at 47.8 degrees. The heatwave is expected to continue until June 17, prompting the Meteorological Department to issue alerts across the region.
Two districts of Punjab will have to face severe heat today. These include Ludhiana and Barnala. Orange alert has been issued for both of them by the department. While yellow alert has been issued in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Faridkot, Muktsar, Moga, Bathinda, Mansa, Sangrur, Patiala, Mohali and Malerkotla. Highest temperature in Pathankot 47.8 degrees has been recorded in Amritsar, 45.2 degrees in Ludhiana, 45.1 degrees in Patiala, 45.6 in Bathinda, 47.0 degrees in Faridkot, 46.1 in Fatehgarh Sahib, 44.9 in Ferozepur, while 43.8 in Jalandhar, 43.7 in Moga, 44.5 in Mohali, 43.6 in Ropar and 44.1 in Roop Nagar has been recorded, although there has not been much change in the average temperature.
Additionally, Punjab is facing increased electricity demands as the paddy season begins, leading to higher power consumption. On Thursday, electricity demand peaked at 15379 MW, marking the highest demand this season. This surge in demand poses challenges amidst the heatwave, raising concerns for public health and well-being.
Authorities are advising citizens to take necessary precautions to combat the heat, such as staying indoors during peak hours, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities in the following ways-
Orange Alert Areas:
- Increased awareness of high temperatures and potential heat illness symptoms.
- Greater focus on vulnerable people's health, such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
- Emphasis on staying cool and avoiding heat exposure.
- Encouragement to drink sufficient water, even if not thirsty.
- Promotion of alternative hydrating drinks such as ORS, lassi, torani, lemon water, and buttermilk.
Yellow Alert Areas:
- Recognition of moderate temperatures and tolerable heat for the general public.
- Acknowledgment of potential health concerns for vulnerable groups.
- Promotion of strategies such as avoiding heat exposure and wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose cotton clothing.
- Encouragement to cover the head using a cloth, hat, or umbrella.