Residents across Delhi-NCR experienced the hottest day of the season on Monday as temperatures surged across the region, with several areas recording above 44°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in Delhi-NCR from Tuesday to Friday, warning that the mercury could climb further in the coming days.
According to the IMD forecast, the Delhi-NCR temperature may touch 45°C this week, increasing concerns over heat-related illnesses and extreme weather conditions.
Delhi-NCR Records Hottest Day of the Season
The Lodhi Road observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 43.8°C on Monday, nearly 5 degrees above normal and enough to meet the heatwave criteria.
Safdarjung, considered the base weather station for Delhi, recorded a maximum temperature of 43.4°C, the hottest day of the season so far. The previous seasonal high was 42.8°C recorded in April.
Some of the hottest areas across Delhi included:
- Ridge – 44.6°C
- Ayanagar – 44.4°C
- Mungeshpur – 43.9°C
- Palam – 43.5°C
The minimum temperature settled at 26.3°C, which remained normal for this time of the year.
IMD Forecasts Heatwave Conditions Across Delhi-NCR
The IMD said temperatures across Delhi-NCR are likely to rise by another 2°C over the next two days. Maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 43°C and 45°C on Tuesday and Wednesday, while Thursday and Friday could see temperatures ranging between 42°C and 44°C.
Officials said isolated heatwave conditions are likely to continue throughout the week.
As per IMD guidelines, a heatwave is declared when the temperature touches 45°C or more, or when it crosses 40°C with a departure of at least 4.5 degrees above normal for two consecutive days.
“If similar conditions continue on Tuesday, Monday will also be considered an isolated heatwave day,” an IMD official said.
Delhi-NCR Air Quality Remains Moderate Despite Rising Heat
Even as the Delhi-NCR temperature continues to rise, air quality across the region remained in the “moderate” category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 173 on Monday, slightly lower than Sunday’s reading of 174.
Pollution data showed that PM10, largely caused by dust particles, remained the dominant pollutant in the atmosphere.
How to Stay Safe During Delhi-NCR Heatwave
With Delhi-NCR expected to face extreme heat conditions this week, doctors and weather experts have advised residents to take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration.
Heatwave safety tips for Delhi-NCR residents:
- Drink water regularly and stay hydrated
- Avoid direct sunlight during afternoon hours
- Wear loose and light-coloured cotton clothing
- Use caps, sunglasses, or umbrellas outdoors
- Avoid heavy outdoor exercise during peak heat
- Eat light meals and avoid dehydration
- Keep children and elderly family members indoors during extreme heat
Experts also advised residents across Delhi-NCR to monitor weather updates regularly as temperatures continue to remain dangerously high.
Inputs from TOI
