New Delhi: A blistering heatwave is tightening its grip on North India, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for Delhi and warning of soaring temperatures across the region in the coming days. The national capital is expected to witness maximum temperatures ranging between 40-42°C, pushing it close to official heatwave territory.
A heatwave is declared when temperatures hit at least 40°C and are 4.5°C above normal, or when they exceed 45°C, according to IMD norms.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan is already in the throes of an intense heat spell. Barmer recorded a sizzling 45.6°C on Sunday, the highest temperature in the first week of April since 1998, when it had reached 45.2°C on April 3. Jaisalmer and other districts are also witnessing temperatures well above seasonal averages.
“A red alert for heatwave conditions has been issued for west Rajasthan for the next two days,” said IMD scientist Dr Naresh Kumar in a statement to ANI.
“Delhi can see heatwave conditions in the next three days. A western disturbance will influence the Himalayan region from tomorrow night… Temperatures in the Himalayas will start to fall after tomorrow night and after three days in Punjab and Haryana,” he added.
North India to Sizzle, Relief Expected Later This Week
Heatwave-like conditions are forecast to sweep across Punjab, Haryana, and the Delhi-NCR region over the next 3–4 days. A Western Disturbance is expected to bring some respite starting April 8, first impacting the Western Himalayas and eventually lowering temperatures in the northern plains.
In Delhi, the weather has remained relatively stable in the past 24 hours. Maximum temperatures in most areas ranged from 38°C to 39°C, while minimums hovered around 19°C to 23°C. Although the minimums remain close to normal, the maximums are 2–4°C above average, intensifying discomfort for city residents. Winds from the west-northwest at speeds up to 18 km/h and clear skies have only contributed to the sweltering conditions.
