Punjab sizzles at 46.8°C as heatwave grips state
Rain, hailstorm likely from June 11
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 10, 2026: Punjab and Chandigarh continued to reel under severe heat on Wednesday as temperatures soared across the region, prompting the Meteorological Department to issue a heatwave alert for several districts. Bathinda recorded a scorching 46.8 degrees Celsius, the highest temperature in the state and one of the season’s hottest readings so far.
According to the Chandigarh Meteorological Centre, a yellow alert has been issued for Chandigarh and nine districts of Punjab due to prevailing heatwave conditions. However, residents may get some relief from the intense heat as weather conditions are expected to change from June 11, with chances of rain, thunderstorms, and even hailstorm activity in some areas.
The average maximum temperature across Punjab has increased by 0.9 degrees Celsius and currently remains 3.8 degrees above normal, reflecting the severity of the ongoing heatwave. Temperatures in most districts ranged between 40°C and 46.3°C, keeping daytime conditions extremely uncomfortable.
Heatwave Alert for Nine Districts
The Meteorological Department has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist at isolated places in districts bordering Rajasthan, including:
- Ferozepur
- Fazilka
- Faridkot
- Sri Muktsar Sahib
- Moga
- Bathinda
- Barnala
- Mansa
- Sangrur
The weather is expected to remain largely dry in these districts on Wednesday, further intensifying heat stress.
Relief on the Horizon
Weather experts have predicted a significant change in conditions from June 11 onwards due to the influence of a Western Disturbance and a trough system affecting the region.
Strong winds with speeds of 50 to 60 kmph are expected to sweep across parts of Punjab. The department has also forecast thunderstorms, lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and hailstorm activity in some areas over the next two days.
The anticipated weather activity is likely to bring much-needed relief from the prolonged spell of extreme heat and improve overall conditions across the state.
Monsoon Yet to Reach Punjab
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has clarified that the southwest monsoon has not yet entered Punjab. Current projections suggest that the monsoon could arrive in the state during the last week of June, although its advancement will depend on weather developments over the coming days.
Until then, residents have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, stay hydrated and take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses as Punjab continues to endure one of the hottest periods of the summer season.