After sweltering heat during the day, a fresh Western Disturbance triggered thunderstorms and rain in isolated areas across Punjab and Haryana on Thursday in the evening, bringing some respite.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an orange alert for thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds, which will remain in effect on Friday as well, advising the public to be prepared.
Before the weather took a turn post 6 pm, Rohtak emerged the hottest in the twin states, recording a maximum temperature of 43.1°C. Hisar was right behind, recording a maximum of 42.9°C, while Bhiwani logged 41°C, Ambala 39.5°C and Narnaul 39°C.
In Punjab, Bathinda was the hottest at 42.5°C, followed by Patiala at 40.6°C, Ludhiana at 40.4°C and Amritsar 38.8°C. Chandigarh recorded a high of 38.9°C.
IMD has also issued a yellow alert for Saturday, warning of more thunderstorms, rain and high-speed winds, forecasting a cool end to the week.