After a brief lull, summer seems to be making a forceful comeback in Punjab. Temperatures across the state have spiked sharply, and with the mercury climbing nearly two degrees in just a day, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has now sounded a heatwave alert starting June 9.
For now, Punjab’s average day temperature is still slightly cooler than expected for this time of year—hovering about 1.9°C below normal—but weather experts are clear: this won’t last much longer. Bathinda, already registering 40.4°C, is emerging as the hottest zone in the state.
From June 9 to 11, the heatwave warning covers not just Punjab but also neighbouring Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. With clear skies forecast, there’s little hope for any cloud cover or rain to offer relief. Instead, blazing sun and dry winds are expected to push the temperatures even further.
According to the IMD's regional outlook for June 6 to 12:
- Southwestern Punjab is likely to experience highs between 40°C to 42°C
- Northern and eastern districts could see temperatures ranging from 36°C to 38°C
- Far northern parts may be slightly better off, with highs near 34°C to 36°C
Nighttime temperatures are expected to stay lower than usual in most parts, but the southern districts might hold steady around the seasonal average.
Although the southwest monsoon has begun to move across other regions of India, Punjab is yet to see its arrival. However, the long-range forecast brings a sliver of hope—the state is expected to receive above-average rainfall later in the season, which could ease the oppressive heat.
In the meantime, residents are being advised to take sensible precautions. Doctors and health officials are especially urging senior citizens, children, and those with underlying health conditions to avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day. Staying hydrated, wearing light cotton clothing, and limiting exposure to direct sunlight can go a long way in preventing heatstroke or exhaustion.
To sum up, Punjab is staring down a dry, hot spell. With Bathinda already feeling the brunt of it and the rest of the state following close behind, the next few days are likely to test everyone’s summer endurance, at least until the monsoon decides to bring some relief.