Delhi is experiencing very hot weather this week, with temperatures touching 40.2 degrees Celsius on Monday. This was the first heatwave of the season in the national capital, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The heatwave is expected to continue until Wednesday, with a slight drop in temperature likely from Thursday onwards.

Several parts of Delhi recorded very high temperatures. The Ridge and Ayanagar stations both crossed 41 degrees Celsius, while Palam and Lodhi Road recorded temperatures around 39 degrees Celsius. IMD said, “Three stations – Safdarjung, Ridge and Ayanagar – met the heatwave criteria today, marking the first day of heatwave conditions this season. These conditions are likely to continue until April 9. From April 10 onwards, a drop in temperature is expected over Northwest India, including Delhi,” as reported by PTI.

According to the forecast, Delhi’s temperature between April 11 and 13 is expected to stay between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, with partly cloudy skies providing some relief.

What does a yellow alert for heatwaves mean?

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi, which means the heat is moderate but can still be dangerous for certain people. This includes infants, elderly individuals, and people who already have health problems. IMD advises people to avoid being out in the sun for long, wear light and loose cotton clothes, and cover their head with a cloth or umbrella when stepping out.

Here’s what different heatwave alerts mean:

  • Yellow Alert: Heat is moderate but can affect vulnerable groups. Take basic precautions.
  • Orange Alert: Higher temperatures and more risk. People should avoid long sun exposure, drink water or lemon water, and try to stay cool.
  • Red Alert: Very high risk of heat-related illness or heat stroke for all age groups. Extreme caution is needed.

How unusual is an April heatwave in Delhi?

Delhi usually sees temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius in the second half of April. But this year, it happened earlier, in the first half of the month. The last time something like this happened was in April 2022, when the temperature went up to 41.6 degrees Celsius on April 8.

In 2023 and 2024, there were no heatwaves in April, even though the temperature did reach 40 degrees.

Since the heat is coming earlier this year, experts are warning people to be careful and take safety steps to protect themselves from the strong summer heat.

 

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