Weather Alert – Delhi-NCR Braces for Prolonged Spell of Extreme Heat

Weather Alert –   Residents in Delhi-NCR are expected to face intense heat conditions over the coming days as temperatures continue to climb across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast persistent hot and dry weather until May 23, with daytime temperatures likely to remain between 42 and 45 degrees Celsius in several areas.

IMD Issues Warning Over Heatwave Conditions

The weather department has issued a yellow alert for May 19 and May 20, urging people to remain cautious during peak afternoon hours. Authorities have advised residents to reduce outdoor activities unless necessary, especially between noon and late afternoon when temperatures are expected to be at their highest.

As per IMD standards, a heatwave in the plains is declared when the maximum temperature touches at least 40 degrees Celsius and remains considerably above normal seasonal levels. A severe heatwave is recorded when the temperature rises beyond 45 degrees Celsius or stays more than 6.4 degrees Celsius above average conditions.

Experts warn that prolonged exposure to such weather may lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and heat-related illnesses. Children, elderly citizens, and outdoor workers are considered most vulnerable during these periods of extreme heat.

Temperatures Likely to Rise Further in Delhi

Meteorologists have predicted that temperatures in Delhi could increase by another 2 to 3 degrees Celsius over the next few days. Although partly cloudy skies and isolated thunderstorm activity are likely on Sunday, the overall heat intensity is not expected to decline significantly.

Strong winds moving at speeds between 20 and 30 kilometres per hour may provide temporary relief in some areas, while occasional gusts could touch nearly 40 kilometres per hour. However, the maximum temperature in the national capital is still expected to remain close to 44 degrees Celsius.

Weather experts also noted that clearer skies later in the week may further strengthen heatwave conditions. Night temperatures are expected to stay unusually warm, offering limited relief for residents.

Several Northern States Under Heatwave Grip

Apart from Delhi-NCR, many states across North and Central India are also expected to experience severe summer conditions. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Chhattisgarh are among the regions likely to witness sustained heatwave conditions in the coming days.

Meanwhile, temperatures in the western Himalayan belt are also projected to increase by around 3 to 4 degrees Celsius, indicating a wider impact of rising heat across northern parts of the country.

Rainfall Expected in Southern and Northeastern Regions

In contrast to the dry weather affecting northern India, parts of Northeast and South India may receive moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning activity.

States including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are expected to witness unstable weather patterns with strong winds and scattered showers over the next few days.

Meteorologists believe these weather systems could bring temporary cooling in some regions, though isolated heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity may also disrupt normal conditions.

Air Quality Continues to Remain Poor

Alongside the rising heat, Delhi’s air quality continues to raise concerns. Several air monitoring stations across the city have reported Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the “poor” category.

Areas such as Anand Vihar, Dwarka Sector 8, Rohini, Wazirpur, Bawana, and Pusa recorded particularly concerning readings, indicating unhealthy air conditions for sensitive groups.

Health Advisory Issued for Residents

Health specialists have advised people to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Wearing loose cotton clothing, consuming enough fluids, and taking regular breaks from outdoor activities are being strongly recommended.

Doctors have also urged residents to pay special attention to elderly family members, children, and individuals with existing health conditions during the ongoing spell of extreme weather.