Heat strikes back, 40°C breached in Tricity

Chandigarh: After a brief spell of relative ease, summer returned with a vengeance to the Tricity on Sunday, pushing the mercury past the 40°C mark for the first time this May. Chandigarh recorded a maximum of 40.3°C at the Sector 39 observatory, nearly three weeks after temperatures had last touched this level, signalling the onset of a harsher phase of the season.The sharp spike turned the afternoon into a test of endurance, emptying roads and forcing residents to retreat indoors. Markets wore a subdued look, while those venturing out sought refuge under sparse shade, water bottles in hand.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the temperature was about 1°C above normal, with dry conditions persisting across Punjab and Haryana. The minimum temperature settled at 22.9°C, slightly below normal, offering little comfort after a sweltering day. Weather officials pointed to a steady rise in temperatures across the region, with no immediate respite in sight.The forecast offers little relief. Clear skies are expected to dominate Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula over the next five days, allowing the sun to intensify its grip. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover around 41°C till May 21 and could climb further to 42°C by May 22. Nights, too, are expected to turn warmer, with minimum temperatures rising to between 25°C and 26°C.Adding to concerns, weather experts have warned of heatwave conditions setting in across parts of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh from Monday. Authorities have urged residents to limit exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours and stay well-hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses.Low humidity levels provided little relief as dry, hot northwesterly winds swept through the city, worsening discomfort. With no rainfall predicted in the coming days, the Tricity appears headed for a prolonged stretch of harsh, dry heat.Journey from 40 to 40April 27 | 40.2April 28 | 33.8April 29 | 36.5April 30 | 36.8May 1 | 35.2May 2 | 36.2May 3 | 33.2May 4 | 31.7May 5 | 31.5May 6 | 34.3May 7 | 30.8May 8 | 33May 9 | 35.1May 10 | 35May 11 | 36May 12 | 34.6May 13 | 38.6May 14 | 38.1May 15 | 37.9May 16 | 39May 17 | 40.3