Patiala/Karnal, June 12 -- Several parts of Punjab and Haryana continued to reel under a heatwave on Wednesday. The India meteorological department (IMD) issued a red alert for severe heatwave in parts of Punjab and Haryana for the next 48 hours.

"Heatwave conditions are very likely at many places in Punjab during 11th-14th with severe heatwave conditions at some parts. We have issued a red alert for the next 48 hours, and people should avoid venturing out in the afternoon," said a MET official.

He said that the maximum temperature was markedly above normal by 5.4degC in the state.

"Heatwaves were observed at Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Bathinda on Wednesday. There is no relief in sight from heatwave conditions until June 15. Pe...