Maximum temperatures soared to 45.5 degrees Celsius in parts of the capital on Wednesday. (image-X/thematrixloop)
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Delhi, warning residents to take immediate precautions as the city battles an intense and prolonged heatwave. Maximum temperatures soared to 45.5 degrees Celsius in parts of the capital on Wednesday, with forecasts indicating little respite until at least June 13 night, when light showers and thunderstorms may bring some relief.
According to the IMD’s daily bulletin, temperatures across Delhi-NCR are expected to hover between 44 degrees Celsisu and 46 degrees Celsius over the next two days. Ayanagar recorded the highest temperature at 45.5 degrees Celsius, while Safdarjung hit 43.8 degrees Celsius – both significantly above normal.
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The red alert signals a “take action” warning, urging the public to avoid heat exposure, remain indoors during peak hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Humidity levels remained moderate at 39% early in the day, but discomfort was worsened by dry, south-westerly winds sweeping through the region. Air quality has also deteriorated, with an AQI reading of 225 at 2 PM, compounding the health risks for Delhi residents.
Following June 13, Delhi is likely to see an orange alert as the weather pattern shifts, bringing light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds up to 60 kmph, potentially easing temperatures slightly. A further dip of 2-4 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures is expected after June 14.
Meanwhile, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan remain under red alert through June 12. Warm night conditions are also anticipated in isolated pockets of Punjab and Haryana. Bathinda was the hottest location in Punjab in the past 24 hours, registering a maximum of 45.6 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 25.8 degrees Celsius. The region continues to experience dry weather, with temperatures exceeding the seasonal average by up to 4.4 degrees Celsius in many districts.
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In its June 10 bulletin, the IMD forecast light to moderate rainfall across Haryana and Himachal Pradesh between June 12 and 16, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and winds of 40-50 kmph. However, a significant drop in maximum temperatures is not expected until after June 14.
As Delhi and other parts of northwest India brace for more scorching days ahead, authorities are urging citizens to take heat safety seriously to prevent avoidable health emergencies.
