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Delhi temperature crosses 40°C, IMD warns of intensifying heat and hot days ahead

Delhi reels under intensifying heat as temperatures cross 40°C, with IMD warning of a prolonged hot spell and no immediate relief in sight.

By Pritha Chakraborty

Apr 16, 2026 09:17 IST

Delhi is witnessing a renewed surge in temperatures, with the India Meteorological Department indicating that several parts of the city are likely to cross the 40C mark. Thursday morning began on a relatively comfortable note, with the minimum temperature settling around 23C. However, the brief relief is expected to fade as the day progresses and the heat intensifies.

As the day advances, temperatures are forecast to climb sharply, returning the city to scorching conditions. The shift follows a short period of relief due to recent rainfall. Clear skies and strong sunlight are expected to dominate, particularly during the afternoon hours, making outdoor conditions uncomfortable.

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What is driving the heat?

The temperature rise is largely linked to persistent dry weather and increased solar exposure. According to IMD, dry winds combined with cloudless skies are allowing heat to build up more rapidly during the day. These factors are contributing to an early spell of intense summer conditions across the region.

Signs of heatwave-like conditions

Delhi has already begun experiencing high temperatures in some areas. On Wednesday, the Ridge recorded a maximum of 40.7C, while Safdarjung, the city’s base station, reported 39.2C, which is 3.1 degrees above normal. These readings suggest a gradual escalation towards heatwave-like conditions, even though no official heatwave warning has been issued yet.

Five-day outlook

The IMD forecast indicates that high temperatures will persist over the coming days:

April 16: Partly cloudy, 40C max, 21C min

April 17: Partly cloudy, 41C max, 23C min

April 18: Clear turning partly cloudy, 41C max, 21C min

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April 19: Partly cloudy, 41C max, 22C min

April 20: Mainly clear, 40C max, 21C min

April 21: Mainly clear, 40C max, 21C min

With temperatures hovering around 40C, residents are advised to limit exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours and stay hydrated. The current trend indicates the onset of a sustained summer phase, with no immediate relief expected.

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