Patiala, April 17 -- The mercury soared to 40.7degC in Bathinda, marking an early onset of summer in the state, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) cautioning of the rising temperatures ahead. Five other cities in Punjab recorded temperatures above 35degC. This is the first time this season that any district in the state has crossed the 40degC threshold. Ludhiana recorded 39. 6degC, followed by Patiala and Faridkot at 39.5degC. In Amritsar, the mercury soared to 38degC. The country's nodal weather agency on Thursday said the average maximum temperature in the state is currently 3.5degC above normal. The IMD indicated that maximum temperatures in the state are likely to remain above normal by 2-4degC in the coming days. Minimum temperatures have also been rising, contributing to warmer nights and reducing overall relief from the heat, the IMD added. With temperatures steadily increasing, the Punjab health department has advised people to take necessary precautions as heatstroke, dehydration, heat cramps, heat syncope, dizziness and low blood pressure are common during such weather. Health and family welfare minister Dr Balbir Singh said, "To ensure the safety of our citizens, I have directed all civil surgeons to operationalise dedicated heat stroke management units across all district hospitals, sub-division hospitals and community health centres." These wards will be equipped with active cooling measures, including ice packs and cold IV fluids....