Delhi Heatwave Alert: Temperatures Set to Surge to 41 Degrees Celsius by Friday
The national capital is bracing for a significant rise in temperatures this week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting that the maximum temperature could touch a scorching 41 degrees Celsius by Friday, April 17. This comes after a period of relatively milder weather due to western disturbances.
Current Weather Conditions and Recent Trends
On Monday, April 12, Delhi's base station at Safdarjung recorded a maximum temperature of 36.1 degrees Celsius, which is considered normal for this season. This reading marks the second highest temperature recorded so far this season, following the peak of 36.8 degrees Celsius observed on April 2. In comparison, Sunday's maximum was lower at 34.6 degrees Celsius.
The minimum temperature on Monday dropped to 17.7 degrees Celsius, which is three notches below the normal range for this time of year. Over the past week, daytime temperatures had been below normal due to the influence of western disturbances affecting the region.
IMD Forecast and Expected Temperature Rise
The IMD has issued a detailed forecast indicating a gradual but steady increase in temperatures over the coming days. According to the department, a fresh feeble western disturbance is likely to impact the western Himalayan region starting from the night of April 15. However, this is not expected to curb the rising heat in Delhi.
Key predictions from the IMD include:
- A gradual rise in maximum temperature by 4-5 degrees Celsius over the next five days, with no significant changes thereafter.
- Maximum temperatures are likely to be normal in the next 24 hours but will rise to above normal or appreciably above normal levels after that.
- Minimum temperatures are also expected to increase by 3-4 degrees Celsius in the next five days.
Specifically, the maximum temperature is projected to hover around 37-39 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, April 13, and further rise to 37-39 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. By Friday, April 17, it is anticipated to spike to a range of 39-41 degrees Celsius, potentially marking the hottest day of the season so far.
Air Quality Index (AQI) Update
Despite the rising temperatures, Delhi's air quality remained in the moderate category on Monday, with an AQI of 149. The early warning system has predicted that the air quality is likely to stay in the moderate category from April 14 to 16. However, there is a possibility that it could deteriorate to the poor category in the coming days, adding to the discomfort for residents.
As Delhi prepares for this heatwave, residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, and monitoring updates from the IMD. The combination of high temperatures and potential air quality issues underscores the need for vigilance in the face of changing weather patterns.
