Delhi is facing a steady surge in temperature as peak summer conditions begin to take hold. The India Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave alert for the Delhi-NCR region starting April 21, with harsh conditions likely to persist until April 24. Bright sunshine and clear skies are adding to the discomfort, pushing temperatures above normal levels for this time of year.
Heatwave conditions across Delhi-NCR
Weather officials indicate that heatwave conditions are expected across most parts of the capital, including North, South, East, West, Central Delhi, and New Delhi. Nearby NCR regions such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad are also likely to experience similar conditions. The forecast suggests predominantly clear skies with intense sunlight dominating daytime hours.
Maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 41C and 43C, while minimum temperatures may hover between 21C and 23C. Over the past 24 hours, Safdarjung recorded 39.5C, which is 2.7C above normal, while the Ridge area reached 41.3C.
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Health risks during the heatwave
The IMD has highlighted moderate health concerns linked to the ongoing heatwave, especially for vulnerable groups such as infants, elderly individuals, and people with existing health conditions. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures may result in dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.
“The weather department has issued a yellow alert for several regions of Delhi-NCR due to heatwave conditions,” the update said.
Meteorologists have cautioned that temperatures may rise further in the coming days. “The maximum temperature may increase by 1-2 degrees in the coming days, which will further strengthen the heatwave conditions,” the forecast noted.
Residents are advised to remain cautious by avoiding outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, staying well hydrated, and wearing light cotton clothing. “Heatwave conditions are expected to continue across most districts of Delhi, including North-West, South-West, East and Shahdara,” officials said.
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When is relief expected?
Some easing of conditions is anticipated after April 25, when partly cloudy skies may bring a slight dip in temperatures. Daytime highs could fall to around 40C to 42C. However, significant relief is unlikely in the immediate future.
For now, Delhi-NCR continues to grapple with intense heat, leading to increased demand for water, cooling measures, and medical attention related to heat stress. Authorities have urged residents to stay alert and follow regular weather updates.