IMD issues heatwave warning for Delhi over next 3 days; AQI remains poor

On Sunday, the Safdarjung area—Delhi’s official weather station—recorded a maximum temperature of 38.2°C, which was 3°C above normal.

Severe heatwave conditions are expected in parts of the National Capital beginning Monday till Wednesday, with maximum temperatures likely to reach around 40-42 Degrees Celsius, as per the Indian Metrological Department (IMD). Air quality in the city continues to be categorized as 'poor.'

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40°C and is also 4.5°C or more above the normal temperature. Additionally, any day where the maximum temperature exceeds 45°C qualifies as a heatwave.

A 'severe' heatwave occurs when the maximum temperature is 6.5°C above normal.

On Sunday, the Safdarjung area—Delhi’s official weather station—recorded a maximum temperature of 38.2°C, which was 3°C above normal. The previous day, the maximum was 35.7°C. The highest temperature recorded at Safdarjung this season was 39°C on April 3.

The minimum temperature at Safdarjung was 20.2°C on Monday morning, which is around normal for this time of year. It was 18.5°C on Sunday and 17.5°C on Saturday.

A further rise in minimum temperatures is expected on Tuesday, with forecasts indicating a range of 21-23°C.

“With clear skies anticipated in the region, daytime temperatures are on the rise. Conditions are conducive for a heatwave across the city,” an IMD official stated.