The IMD has predicted a gradual rise in temperatures of up to 5 degrees by April 23. With Bathinda in Punjab already crossing 41 degrees Celsius, residents are urged to prepare for extreme heat.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Monday issued a heatwave alert for Chandigarh, Haryana, and Punjab for the next three days. The department has sounded a yellow alert, stating that there will be a gradual rise of 3 to 5 degrees Celsius until April 23. A heatwave is considered to occur when the actual maximum temperature crosses 45 degrees Celsius.

According to a senior weather official, temperatures are likely to soar above 40 degrees Celsius. Bathinda in Punjab reached 41.3 degrees Celsius Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Public Health Department of the UT administration has issued an advisory to residents in view of the IMD alert.

On Sunday, the maximum temperature in Chandigarh reached 39.3 degrees Celsius, which was 4 degrees above normal. In Haryana, temperatures in Rohtak were the highest at 42.3 degrees Celsius.

The Chandigarh Health Department issued the following advisory immediately:
Dos
Stay hydrated:
Drink sufficient water at frequent intervals, even if you are not thirsty.
Carry drinking water when travelling.
Prefer drinks such as water, lemon water (Nimbu Pani), Lassi, Chaach, Jaljeera, Aam Panna, coconut water, or other locally available natural drinks.
Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, oranges, and lettuce.

Stay covered:
Avoid direct exposure to the sun.
Stay indoors in well-ventilated and cool places.
Wear thin, loose, cotton garments, preferably light-colored.
Cover your head: use an umbrella, hat, etc.
Wear shoes or chappals while going out in the sun.
Keep windows and curtains of your home closed during the day and open them at night.

Don’ts
Avoid going out in the sun unless necessary.
Avoid strenuous activities when outside in the afternoon.
Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks or drinks with large amounts of sugar, as these lead to the loss of more body fluids or may cause stomach cramps.
Do not eat stale food.
Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.