The national capital continues to reel under an intense heatwave, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert as the heat index — which factors in humidity and temperature — soared to an alarming 51.9 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.
While actual temperatures ranged between 40.9°C and 45°C across various weather stations, the oppressive heat combined with high humidity levels has pushed heat stress to dangerous levels. The highest temperature was recorded at Ayanagar (45°C), followed by Palam (44.5°C), Ridge (43.6°C), Pitampura (43.5°C), Lodi Road (43.4°C), Safdarjung (43.3°C), and Mayur Vihar (40.9°C).
The IMD noted that while only Ayanagar reported official heatwave conditions on Wednesday, temperatures remained above normal by 3-4 degrees Celsius in most areas. The department has forecast that the heatwave will persist until June 12, after which a gradual decline in temperature is expected starting June 13.
What is the Heat Index?
The heat index, which crossed 50°C, is a combined measure of temperature and humidity — showing how hot it actually feels. However, the IMD clarified that the heat index is not yet validated for Indian climatic conditions and no official records are maintained for it.
Red Alert and Health Warnings
With the red alert in place, residents are urged to take preventive action:
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Limit outdoor movement, especially in the afternoon
- Wear light clothing and remain in shaded or cool areas
Humidity levels fluctuated between 31% and 73% on Wednesday, with dry northwesterly winds worsening the discomfort. The forecast for Thursday (June 13) includes temperatures between 43–45°C, gusty winds (40–60 kmph), and a chance of light rain or thunderstorms by evening or night.
Rain and Relief Expected
According to Dr. Naresh Kumar, senior IMD scientist, a western disturbance is likely to impact northwest India from the night of June 13, bringing light rain and thunderstorms that may finally offer respite from the heat.
From June 14 to 17, temperatures are expected to drop to 37–42°C, with light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds anticipated. The red alert will be downgraded to an orange alert, signaling a reduction in extreme weather risk.
Air Quality Still a Concern
Meanwhile, Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 245, placing it in the ‘poor’ category, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
AQI levels between:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak hours, monitor weather updates regularly, and take all recommended precautions until conditions begin to ease by the weekend.
Sources By Agencies
