Delhi's February Sets Alarming Records for Heat and Pollution
New Delhi has just endured its most polluted and warmest February in the past three years, according to recent meteorological and environmental data. The month's mean maximum temperature reached a concerning 27 degrees Celsius, which is a significant 2.8 degrees higher than the long period average of 24.2 degrees Celsius. This temperature anomaly represents a substantial deviation from historical norms and signals troubling climate patterns.
Unprecedented Heat Patterns and Temperature Extremes
The mercury soared to 31.9 degrees Celsius on Friday, marking a dramatic six degrees above normal and establishing it as the warmest day of the entire season. Meteorological experts have identified the primary cause as a notable absence of active western disturbances, which typically bring cloud cover and precipitation to the region. This lack of weather systems resulted in consistently clear skies throughout most of February, allowing daytime temperatures to remain elevated above normal levels on the majority of days.
During the entire month, Delhi recorded a mere 0.5 mm of very light rainfall, starkly contrasting with the normal expectation of 21.3 mm. This rainfall deficit of over 97% created ideal conditions for temperature escalation and pollutant accumulation. Since no significant rain activity occurred, even the minimal precipitation that did fall proved insufficient to effectively settle atmospheric pollutants.
Air Quality Deterioration and Pollution Metrics
An extensive analysis of Central Pollution Control Board data reveals that the average Air Quality Index (AQI) for February reached 232, indicating poor air quality throughout the month. This represents a concerning increase compared to previous years, with the AQI measuring 214 in February 2025, 218 in February 2024, and 237 in February 2023. The current reading places this February among the most polluted in recent memory.
From February 1st through February 27th, the capital city experienced two days classified as having "very poor" air quality, with AQI levels exceeding 300. Additionally, there were twenty days categorized as "poor" air quality and only five days that reached the "moderate" classification. This distribution demonstrates the persistent nature of the air quality crisis throughout the month.
Historical Temperature Comparisons and Weather Patterns
The mean maximum temperature recorded this February represents the highest since February 2023. Historical data shows temperatures of 26.7 degrees Celsius in February 2025 and 24.4 degrees in February 2024, but a higher 28.2 degrees in February 2023. India Meteorological Department records confirm that maximum temperatures predominantly remained above normal throughout February, dipping below normal on only two occasions during the entire month.
These exceptions occurred on February 2nd, with a temperature of 17.5 degrees Celsius, and February 18th, with 21.1 degrees, when a weak western disturbance brought drizzling rain and overcast skies. A meteorological official explained, "With no significant rain activity, Delhi mostly experienced clear skies, which resulted in maximum hours of sunshine. The mercury typically stayed three to five degrees above normal on most days of the month."
Record-Breaking Temperature Milestones
Data analysis reveals that the maximum temperature exceeded 30 degrees Celsius on five separate days during February. Particularly noteworthy was February 16th, when temperatures reached 31.6 degrees Celsius, representing a remarkable seven degrees above normal. This event also marked the earliest instance of temperatures crossing the 30-degree threshold in February over the past five years.
Previously, this temperature milestone was reached on February 11th, 2021, when the mercury touched 30.4 degrees Celsius. In February 2025, this threshold was surpassed only during the final week of the month, making this year's early occurrence particularly significant.
Future Temperature Projections and Climate Outlook
Looking ahead, meteorological predictions indicate that temperatures are likely to remain between 30 and 32 degrees Celsius in the immediate future. The India Meteorological Department forecasts that the mercury may climb to 33 degrees Celsius by March 3rd, reach 34 degrees on Holi day, and potentially touch 35 degrees by March 5th. These projections suggest that the unusual warmth experienced in February may extend into the early weeks of March, potentially establishing new temperature patterns for the region.
The combination of elevated temperatures and deteriorating air quality creates significant public health concerns and environmental challenges for India's capital region. These developments highlight the complex interplay between meteorological patterns, pollution dynamics, and broader climate change trends affecting urban centers.
