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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi, warning residents of an approaching heatwave. As per the latest forecast, temperatures in the city could rise to between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius over the next few days. On Wednesday, the temperature dropped slightly to 39.6 degrees Celsius, but it still remained above normal, suggesting hotter days ahead.
What is a Heatwave?
According to the IMD, a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature crosses 40 degrees Celsius and is at least 4.5 degrees above the normal temperature. If the temperature rises more than 6.5 degrees above normal, it is called a "severe heatwave." Also, any temperature above 45 degrees Celsius in the plains is considered a heatwave. By Saturday, the temperature in Delhi is expected to touch 42 to 43 degrees Celsius, with westerly winds and clear skies adding to the heat.
Air Quality Still Poor, But May Improve
Apart from the heat, Delhi has also been dealing with poor air quality for the last three days. The Central Pollution Board (CPBC) reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 224 on Wednesday, which falls under the "poor" category. However, there is some hope as the Centre's Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) predicts that the air quality might improve to "moderate" levels by the weekend.
Warm Days and Nights Ahead
Delhiites can also expect warmer nights along with hot days. The city recorded a minimum temperature of 19.7 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, which was three degrees lower than the usual for this time. But this is expected to increase. The minimum temperature is likely to rise to 20-22 degrees Celsius on Thursday, 22-24 degrees on Friday, and reach up to 23-25 degrees Celsius on Saturday.
How This Year's Heat Compares
This year, Delhi saw its hottest day of the season so far on April 21, when the temperature reached 41.3 degrees Celsius. This is slightly higher than last year's April maximum of 40.5 degrees Celsius, recorded on April 27. In earlier years, April temperatures peaked at 40.6 degrees in 2023 and 43.5 degrees in 2022. The all-time record for the highest April temperature in Delhi remains 45.6 degrees Celsius, which was recorded back in 1941.
Residents Urged to Stay Safe
With a yellow alert in place, the IMD is asking people in Delhi to be careful and protect themselves from the heat. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid going out in the afternoon, and take other safety measures as temperatures continue to rise.
