Weather – Delhi Records Warmest July Night in Five Years Amid Humid Spell
Weather – Delhi witnessed one of its hottest July nights in recent years as oppressive humidity and the continued absence of widespread rainfall pushed temperatures well above seasonal averages. Residents experienced uncomfortable overnight conditions, while the weather department indicated that changing conditions could bring rain and thunderstorms over the weekend.
Unusually Warm Night Breaks Recent July Pattern
The national capital recorded its highest minimum temperature for the month of July in the last five years on Friday. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the overnight temperature settled at 31 degrees Celsius, making it the warmest July night since July 1, 2021, when the city had registered a minimum temperature of 31.7 degrees Celsius.
Daytime conditions were equally intense, with the maximum temperature reaching 38.8 degrees Celsius. This was 3.6 degrees above the normal level for this time of the year, reflecting the prolonged influence of hot and humid weather across the city.
Rain Likely to Bring Some Relief
The IMD has predicted partly cloudy skies along with the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning, and light rainfall during Friday evening and into the night. Gusty winds with speeds between 30 and 40 km/h are also expected to accompany the weather system.
Meteorologists believe these changing conditions could provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat, although humidity levels are likely to remain elevated.
Different Areas Continue to Record Above-Normal Temperatures
Temperature readings from weather stations across Delhi showed that several parts of the city remained significantly warmer than usual. Lodhi Road recorded the highest daytime temperature at 39 degrees Celsius, which was five degrees above normal.
Palam followed with a maximum temperature of 38.5 degrees Celsius, while Ayanagar registered 38.4 degrees Celsius. The Ridge observatory reported a comparatively lower maximum of 37.4 degrees Celsius, though it also remained well above the seasonal average.
At Safdarjung, which serves as Delhi’s primary weather observatory, the minimum temperature was measured at 31 degrees Celsius, nearly four degrees above normal, highlighting the widespread nature of the unusually warm night.
Yellow Alert Issued for the Weekend
The weather department has placed Delhi under a yellow alert for both Saturday and Sunday. Forecasts indicate that thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall are likely over the weekend, with lightning and brief periods of strong winds expected in several areas.
Officials have advised residents to remain alert during changing weather conditions, especially during thunderstorm activity, while commuters may experience temporary disruptions due to rain and gusty winds.
Air Quality Remains in Moderate Category
Despite the hot weather, Delhi’s air quality remained within the “moderate” category on Friday evening. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 176, suggesting that while air pollution levels were not severe, sensitive individuals may still experience minor health effects during prolonged outdoor exposure.
Weather experts will continue monitoring atmospheric conditions over the coming days as the expected rainfall may influence both temperatures and air quality across the capital.