Delhi Braces for Intense Heatwave as Temperatures Set to Exceed 44 Degrees Celsius
On Wednesday, New Delhi experienced a significant spike in temperatures, with the mercury climbing to 40.7 degrees Celsius at the Safdarjung base station. This reading was three degrees above the normal seasonal average, marking a sharp increase from the previous day's 38.8 degrees Celsius. The Ridge station in north Delhi recorded the highest temperature at 42.1 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Ayanagar in southwest Delhi at 41.4 degrees Celsius.
IMD Issues Revised Heatwave Warning for Weekend
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has updated its weather advisory, now forecasting heatwave conditions to develop on Friday and Saturday. According to a Met official, "A gradual rise by 2-3 degrees is likely in the maximum temperature during the next three days, with no large change thereafter. The maximum temperatures are expected to be above normal to appreciably above normal over the next five days."
IMD's detailed predictions indicate that Thursday will see daytime highs of 41-43 degrees Celsius, escalating to 42-44 degrees Celsius on Friday and Saturday. A yellow alert has been issued for heatwave conditions in isolated areas, signaling caution for residents.
Understanding Heatwave Criteria and Historical Context
The IMD classifies a day as a heatwave when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius and is 4.5 degrees Celsius or more above the normal. Alternatively, a heatwave is declared if the temperature touches 45 degrees Celsius. So far this April, no heatwave days have been recorded, but historical data shows:
- In 2023 and 2024, three heatwave days occurred in the second week of April.
- In 2022, Delhi witnessed 11 such days throughout April.
Minimum Temperatures and Air Quality Concerns
The minimum temperature on Wednesday settled at 21.6 degrees Celsius, one degree below normal, but is projected to rise to 27 degrees Celsius by Sunday. Concurrently, Delhi's air quality has deteriorated, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 216, categorized as poor, compared to 177 on Tuesday. Forecasts suggest the AQI will remain poor on Thursday, potentially improving to moderate levels by Friday.
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the extreme heat and poor air quality, staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities during peak hours.
