The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert for Delhi as an intense heatwave sweeps across the capital, pushing temperatures to a scorching 45.5 degree Celsius in some areas. The warning is set to remain in place for the next three days.
Weather stations across Delhi reported extreme temperatures, with IGNOU recording highest temperature at 45.5 degree Celsius, followed closely by Ayanagar at 45.3 degree Celsius.
The Safdarjung observatory, considered as the city’s official weather station, recorded 43.4 degree Celsius, three degrees above the seasonal norm. High humidity levels further pushed Delhi’s heat index or "feels-like" temperature to a sweltering 49 degree Celsius.
Several areas across the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 44.9 degree Celsius in Ridge, 44.3 degree Celsius in Palam, 43.3 degree Celsius in Lodhi Road, and 42.4 degree Celsius in Najafgarh.
IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava on Monday warned that most plains in northwest India, including Delhi-NCR, will continue to face severe heatwave conditions over the next 4-5 days. “In Delhi NCR, the temperature is expected to exceed 45 degree Celsius today and tomorrow, creating heatwave conditions in isolated areas,” Srivastava said.
According to India Today, the weather department has forecast that the current heat wave will be followed by storms and rainfall over the weekend.
IMD said that a shift in weather patterns around June 12–13 could bring partial cloud cover and light showers to some areas, offering slight respite. Widespread storms and rain are also forecast for the weekend.
While monsoon rains typically arrive in Delhi by June 27, this year they may come slightly earlier between June 12 and 18 potentially providing much-needed relief.
Until then, residents are urged to take precautions against the extreme heat. The IMD has advised avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, staying hydrated, and checking in on vulnerable individuals, as high temperatures combined with humidity could pose serious health risks.
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