Delhi is set to endure another spell of intense summer heat as temperatures continue to rise across the capital. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions expected on Tuesday and Wednesday, warning that daytime temperatures could touch 45 degrees Celsius in isolated parts of the city.
The sharp rise in temperatures has already made conditions uncomfortable for residents, with several weather stations across Delhi recording readings above 42°C on Sunday. Weather experts have indicated that the heat is likely to intensify further over the next few days, affecting not only Delhi but also large parts of northwest and central India.
Delhi temperature: Safdarjung, Ayanagar and Ridge Record Extreme Heat
According to the IMD, Safdarjung, considered Delhi’s primary weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 41.9°C on Sunday, nearly two degrees above the seasonal average. This marked a noticeable increase from Saturday’s maximum of 40.8°C.
The heat felt even more severe due to high humidity and atmospheric conditions. The heat index, commonly referred to as the “feels-like” temperature, climbed to 44.5°C by 5.30 pm on Sunday evening.
Among Delhi’s hottest areas was Ayanagar in southwest Delhi, where the mercury touched 43°C. The Ridge station in north Delhi followed closely with a maximum temperature of 42.8°C. These soaring temperatures highlight the growing intensity of the summer season in the national capital.
IMD Predicts Heatwave Conditions Across North India
The weather department has forecast that Delhi’s maximum temperature is likely to remain between 43°C and 45°C from Monday through Wednesday. The IMD also warned that heatwave conditions are expected across several regions of India over the coming days.
In its latest weather bulletin, the IMD stated that maximum temperatures may rise by 3–5 degrees Celsius across many parts of northwest India until 21 May, with no significant relief expected immediately afterwards.
Heatwave conditions are likely to prevail in isolated pockets of Rajasthan from 17–22 May, while Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi are expected to face similar conditions between 18–23 May. Other affected regions include Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh and parts of Uttar Pradesh.
What Qualifies as a Heatwave?
The IMD defines a heatwave as a situation where the maximum temperature reaches at least 40°C and remains 4.5 degrees Celsius or more above the normal seasonal average. A heatwave may also be declared if temperatures touch 45°C or above, regardless of the departure from normal temperatures.
A severe heatwave is announced when temperatures exceed normal levels by 6.5 degrees Celsius or more.
For an official declaration, these conditions must be recorded at a minimum of two weather stations within a meteorological subdivision for two consecutive days. The heatwave is formally declared on the second day.
Delhi Already Experienced Heatwave Conditions Earlier This Season
This is not the first time Delhi has faced extreme temperatures this summer. Parts of the city experienced three consecutive heatwave days from 23 to 25 April. Safdarjung itself recorded a heatwave day on 25 April, when the maximum temperature reached 42.8°C.
Meteorologists believe the ongoing weather pattern is part of a broader heat build-up affecting large sections of northern and central India before the arrival of monsoon activity later in the season.
Meanwhile, nighttime temperatures are also rising steadily. The minimum temperature on Sunday stood at 25.9°C, slightly below normal, but forecasts suggest it could increase to around 29°C in the coming days, making nights warmer and more uncomfortable for residents.
Delhi Air Quality (AQI) Remains in Moderate Category
Alongside the scorching heat, Delhi’s air quality continues to remain a concern. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 174 on Sunday, placing it within the “moderate” category.
Experts warn that the combination of high temperatures and air pollution may worsen respiratory problems and increase health risks, particularly for children, elderly people and individuals with existing medical conditions.
How to Stay Safe During the Delhi Heatwave
Health officials and weather experts are urging residents to take precautions as temperatures continue to climb. Here are some essential heatwave safety tips:
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen quickly during extreme heat.
Avoid Outdoor Activities During Peak Hours
Try to stay indoors between 12 pm and 4 pm, when temperatures are usually at their highest.
Wear Light and Breathable Clothing
Choose loose-fitting cotton clothes and use hats, umbrellas or sunglasses while outdoors.
Eat Light and Cooling Foods
Include fruits and vegetables with high water content such as watermelon, cucumber and oranges in your diet.
Keep Your Home Cool
Use fans, curtains and ventilation to reduce indoor heat. If possible, avoid using heat-generating appliances during the afternoon.
Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, rapid heartbeat and confusion require immediate medical attention.
With temperatures expected to remain dangerously high for the next few days, residents in Delhi and surrounding regions are being advised to monitor weather updates closely and take all necessary precautions to stay safe during the ongoing heatwave.
Inputs from agencies
