Delhi Records First Heatwave of Season as Temperatures Cross 44°C

The national capital witnessed its first heatwave of the season on Saturday, with temperatures soaring between 42°C and 44°C, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for parts of Delhi.

According to official data, temperatures recorded as early as 8:30 am were already significantly elevated, with Safdarjung registering 41.9°C, Palam 42°C, and Ridge touching 43.1°C. The IMD has also issued detailed advisories, urging residents to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and to remain adequately hydrated.

An IMD official indicated that heatwave conditions are likely to develop in isolated pockets across several northern and central regions in the coming days, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and parts of central India.

The weather agency clarified that a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature exceeds 40°C and remains 4.5 to 6.4 degrees above the seasonal average. Such conditions are currently being observed at isolated locations across Delhi.

Minimum temperatures also recorded a marginal increase. Safdarjung reported a minimum of 25.2°C, which is 2.5 degrees above normal, while Palam recorded 26.8°C, reflecting a slight rise compared to the previous day.

Looking ahead, the IMD has forecast the continuation of heatwave conditions in isolated areas on Sunday, with maximum temperatures expected to range between 41°C and 43°C. However, a gradual shift in weather patterns is anticipated early next week, with skies likely to turn overcast by Monday and the possibility of light rain or drizzle on Tuesday.

The agency further stated that maximum temperatures are expected to remain appreciably above normal over the next four days before returning to seasonal averages. No significant change in weather conditions is expected over the next two days.