Heat wave conditions prevail in parts of Punjab, Haryana

Chandigarh, Apr 20 (UNI) Heat wave conditions prevailed in parts of Punjab and Haryana as the temperature soared in these states today.

The mercury hovered six degrees above normal at Amritsar in Punjab where severe heat wave conditions prevailed in northern parts of the state, according to the Weather office here. The heat wave conditions are likely to weaken during the next two days.

Based upon the newly-adopted statistical forecast system, India Metrological Department's log range forecast for south-west monsoon is that rainfall for the country as a whole is likely to be 95 per cent during the monsoon season from June to September.

Amritsar with 39.6 degree Celsius turned out to be the hottest place in Punjab, while Patiala recorded 38.5 degree, three degrees above normal, and Ludhiana showed 37.2 degree Celsius which was one degree above normal.

The temperature also rose in Haryana. Hissar, recording 41.7 degree Celsius, five degrees above normal, was the hottest place in the state. The mercury also stayed above normal at Karnal, Ambala and Narnaul, respectively recording 39.2 degree, 37.3 degree and 36.7 degree Celisus.

The mercury hovered above normal at Chandigarh and its adjoining areas in Punjab and Haryana. The city recorded 36.8 degree Celsius, two degree above normal.

The temperatures also increased in Himachal Pradesh with Bhuntar in Kullu disrict recording 31.2 degree, which was four degrees above normal, while Sundernagar in Mandi district registered 33.5 degree.

Kalpa in tribal district of Kinnaur showed 20.5 degree Celsius. The capital town of Shimla recorded 23.2 degree Celsius, three degrees above normal.

The Met office has predicted light to moderate rain or thundershowers at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh and duststorm or thundershowers with light to moderate rain at isolated places in Haryana and Punjab during the next 24 hours.

UNI