Chandigarh, June 8 — A blistering heatwave gripped Punjab and Haryana on Sunday, with temperatures breaching 45 degrees Celsius in several areas and the twin states’ shared capital, Chandigarh, logging its highest maximum of the season at 42.1°C.
Sirsa in Haryana recorded the day’s highest temperature at a scorching 45.8°C, as most parts of the state battled severe heat. “The mercury has surged beyond normal levels in most districts,” said a senior official at the regional meteorological department.
Rohtak came close behind with a high of 45.3°C, while Hisar experienced intense heat at 44°C. Other areas such as Narnaul (43°C), Ambala (42.5°C), Bhiwani (42.8°C), Karnal (41.8°C), and Gurugram (41.6°C) also reported above-average maximum temperatures.
Chandigarh, the Union Territory that serves as the joint capital of both states, matched the pattern. “This is the highest temperature recorded in Chandigarh this season,” the Met department confirmed, pointing to the city’s 42.1°C reading on Sunday.
In neighbouring Punjab, Bathinda emerged as the hottest, registering 44.8°C. Amritsar followed at 44°C, while Ludhiana saw the mercury climb to 43.4°C.
“Hot winds and dry conditions have intensified across northwestern plains,” said the weather office. Patiala sizzled at 42.8°C, Pathankot recorded 43°C, and Ferozepur settled at 42.3°C—marking widespread discomfort.
The India Meteorological Department has advised people to stay indoors during peak hours and stay hydrated. Officials indicated that similar conditions are expected to persist over the next few days.
