Punjab is in the grip of a relentless heatwave, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued high-temperature alerts for the state's major cities. Punjab's maximum temperature for the next five days is likely to be 44°C to 46°C as the state is witnessing one of the hottest waves in the last couple of years.
Jalandhar: mercury may touch 46°C
Jalandhar is facing its peak week of the year, and IMD has forecast a top of 46°C on June 10.
- June 8: 44°C
- June 9–10: 45–46°C
- June 11–12: Slight dip to 44°C
Rain Outlook: No rain predicted until at least June 14.
Official advisories have gone out requesting individuals to cut down on outdoor activities, especially in the afternoons, and unnecessary travel.
Ludhiana: prolonged heat, increasing health concerns
Ludhiana continues to bake in dry, heat conditions with temperatures every day between 43°C and 45°C.
- Low humidity is increasing threats of dehydration
- Hospitals report an increase in heat illnesses
- Nighttime temperatures are high (28–29°C), with little respite
Local health officials are emphasizing hydration and staying indoors.
Amritsar: no respite as situation worsens
Amritsar weather continues to be hot and dry, with temperatures holding steady at 44–45°C until June 12.
- No cloud or rain is predicted
- Public parks and open spaces are seeing lesser traffic
- Drinking water kiosks have been placed at strategic locations
Doctors are issuing caution on heatstroke and sunburn risks, especially for children and the elderly.
IMD heatwave advisory for Punjab
IMD has released a Heatwave Watch for Punjab and is issuing the following advice:
- Avoid venturing out between 12 PM and 4 PM
- Drink water, buttermilk, and ORS regularly
- Wear light-colored cotton clothes
- Pay special care to babies, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses.
No rain until June 14
Since the southwest monsoon is yet to arrive in the state, Punjab will not see any rain in the next week. Weather models suggest dry and extremely hot weather to persist with a slight possibility of relief only after June 14.
Statewide response
The Punjab Health Department has sent advisories to all medical facilities, asking them to keep beds reserved for heat-related emergencies and have water coolers, medicines, and power backup arrangements in place. Public awareness campaigns are being launched to aid residents in dealing with the weather extremity.
Bottom line
Punjab's metropolises are preparing themselves for a deadly heatwave. People are being asked to abide by the official orders, drink as much water as possible, and watch over weak sections of society until the region sees relief from the sun.