Punjab sizzles as temperatures cross 40°C in 10 districts; Faridkot records season’s high at 45.2°C
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 26, 2026: A severe heatwave has gripped Punjab and Chandigarh, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in at least 10 districts. For the first time this season, the mercury touched a scorching 45.2°C, with Faridkot emerging as the hottest location in the state.
The overall temperature across the state is running nearly 4.9°C above normal. According to the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, a yellow alert has been issued for Sunday, warning of continued extreme heat conditions.
A further yellow alert has been sounded for the period between April 27 and April 30, cautioning residents about heatwave conditions, warm nights, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Meanwhile, Chandigarh has issued an orange alert for heatwave conditions over the next two days, with wind speeds expected to reach 40–50 km/h.
Authorities have advised people to avoid outdoor activities between 12 noon and 4 pm and to take extra care of their health and hydration. Dry weather is expected to persist across the state.
Heatwave alerts have been issued for 12 districts, including Moga, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Barnala, Muktsar, Bathinda, Mansa, Sangrur, Patiala, Tarn Taran, and Amritsar. Additionally, seven districts are under alert for unusually warm nights.
Temperature readings across key locations include 41.0°C in Chandigarh, 42.2°C in Ludhiana, 42.5°C in Patiala, and 44.2°C at Bathinda Airport. The intense heatwave conditions are expected to continue over the coming days, prompting authorities to remain on alert.