Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh

Punjab and Chandigarh continue to grapple with an intense heatwave, with the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh issuing a severe heatwave alert till May 23. Temperatures across the region have surged sharply, pushing daily life out of gear.

According to the weather department, Punjab recorded a rise of 1.1 degrees Celsius compared to Tuesday, with temperatures remaining 4.6 degrees above normal. Faridkot emerged as the hottest district in the state on Tuesday, recording a scorching 47.3 degrees Celsius. Most other districts also witnessed temperatures crossing the 40-degree mark.

Officials have warned that there is little relief in sight, as no rainfall is expected in Punjab over the next week. The mercury in several parts of the state is likely to hover between 45 and 47 degrees Celsius, while Chandigarh may experience temperatures ranging from 42 to 45 degrees Celsius.

Amid the soaring temperatures, authorities in Chandigarh have announced summer vacations in schools from May 23 to June 30, 2026, amounting to a 39-day break. However, teachers will be required to report to schools on June 29 and 30. Punjab is also expected to announce summer holidays for schools later this week as the heatwave intensifies.