Mohali, March 7: Unseasonably warm weather has gripped Punjab, with the state recording temperatures significantly higher than the historical norm for the first week of March. Agricultural scientists warned that the current heatwave, characterized by temperatures 7.5°C above average, could adversely impact the size and quality of wheat grains.
Data from the meteorological department confirmed that every district in the state saw the mercury rise above 30°C on Friday. “There will be a steady rise in the maximum temperature by about 2-3°C during the next four days,” the IMD bulletin stated, indicating that the heat is likely to intensify before stabilizing.
The sudden transition to summer-like conditions has placed the wheat crop under immense stress during the grain-filling stage. Experts noted that prolonged exposure to such heat can shorten the growing season and lower the final harvest weight. To combat these effects, Punjab Agricultural University has started providing technical support to growers across the state.
Vice Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal affirmed that proactive measures are being taken to assist the rural belt. He maintained that the university had anticipated the possibility of early heatwave-like conditions and urged farmers to follow specific irrigation and management protocols. Authorities stated that consistent monitoring and timely intervention will be key to safeguarding the state’s primary rabi crop from the shifting climate.
