Delhi Records Hottest Day of the Year as Temperatures Soar
New Delhi experienced a significant spike in temperatures on Wednesday, with the maximum temperature reaching 39.2 degrees Celsius at the Safdarjung base station. This reading was three degrees above the normal level for this time of year, marking the hottest day so far in 2024, surpassing Tuesday's high of 38.2 degrees Celsius.
IMD Forecasts Rising Temperatures Without Heatwave Conditions
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the mercury is expected to climb further, potentially touching 42 degrees Celsius by Friday. However, officials have clarified that heatwave conditions are unlikely to develop over the next seven days. A gradual increase of 2-3 degrees in maximum temperatures is anticipated over the next three days, followed by a slight drop of 1-2 degrees thereafter.
Heatwave Criteria and Historical Context
IMD defines a heatwave day when the maximum temperature is at least 4.5 degrees above normal and reaches a minimum of 40 degrees Celsius, or if it hits 45 degrees Celsius or higher. In Delhi, heatwaves typically occur from April through the first week of June. Last year, the city reported three heatwave days in April, while April 2022 was particularly intense with 11 such days.
Regional Temperature Variations and Causes
On Wednesday, Ridge in north Delhi was the hottest station, recording 40.7 degrees Celsius. Other areas like Lodhi Road and Ayanagar saw temperatures settle at 39 degrees Celsius, while Palam registered 38.3 degrees. Officials attributed the rise in mercury to clear skies, which allowed for maximum hours of sunshine across the city.
Health Advisory Issued by IMD
With temperatures expected to remain above normal to appreciably above normal for the next week, IMD has issued warnings about moderate health concerns for vulnerable populations, including infants and elderly individuals with chronic diseases. The department advises residents to avoid heat exposure, wear lightweight, light-colored, loose cotton clothing, cover their heads with cloth, hats, or umbrellas, and drink sufficient water regularly, even if not thirsty.
Minimum Temperatures and Seasonal Trends
The minimum temperature on Wednesday was 19.4 degrees Celsius, two notches below normal, but it is projected to rise to around 24 degrees Celsius by Friday. March of this year offered some relief due to back-to-back western disturbances that brought rain and overcast skies, a pattern that continued into early April. However, clear skies returned from April 9, leading to the current temperature surge.
Air Quality Deteriorates to Poor Levels
In related environmental news, Delhi's air quality worsened to the poor category on Wednesday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 204, up from 167 on Tuesday. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, which operates under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, the AQI is predicted to be moderate on Thursday and Friday. Over the next six days, air quality may fluctuate between moderate and poor categories.
Summary of Key Points
- Delhi's maximum temperature hit 39.2°C, the highest this year.
- IMD forecasts temperatures to rise to 42°C by Friday but no heatwave expected soon.
- Heatwave conditions are defined by specific temperature thresholds and historical patterns.
- Health risks highlighted for vulnerable groups, with preventive measures advised.
- Air quality declined to poor levels, with predictions of moderate conditions ahead.
