CHANDIGARH, May 15: After an unusually mild start to May, temperatures in Chandigarh surged past the 40°C mark for the first time this month on Wednesday, with the maximum temperature touching 40.5°C, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported.
The reading, which is three degrees above normal, signals a sharp rise in heat levels as the city heads into the second half of May, typically the hottest stretch of the year in this region.
“Earlier cool spells were due to repeated Western Disturbances and associated weather systems. Now, those systems are weakening, and temperatures are climbing,” said Surender Paul, director, IMD Chandigarh.
On Tuesday, the maximum temperature stood at 39.9°C, but by Wednesday it had crept above 40°C. The minimum temperature also rose—from 23.6°C on Tuesday to 24.7°C on Wednesday—putting it 0.9°C above normal.
According to IMD projections, the maximum temperature could soar to 44°C by the weekend. However, Paul added that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely next week, potentially bringing light rain and a brief respite from the heat.
The current trend is in line with IMD’s long-range forecast, which had already warned of above-normal maximum and minimum temperatures in late May.
In April, Chandigarh had already seen the mercury touch 41.5°C on April 27. But this May had remained relatively cool until now, with cloud cover, light rain, and cool winds keeping temperatures in check during the first two weeks.
Historically, Chandigarh has faced extreme heat around this time of year. On May 29, 2023, the city recorded its highest-ever temperature of 46.7°C at the airport. The previous record was 46.5°C on May 28, 1988.
Since March 1, the city has logged 55.2 mm of rainfall, which is 26% above normal, contributing to the relatively cooler conditions earlier in the season.
While residents may face several scorching days ahead, the IMD’s forecast of light rainfall next week offers some hope of moderate relief before the full onset of summer heat intensifies further.
