Delhi finds itself in the grip of another heatwave as temperatures soar to alarming levels, with Narela emerging as the hottest spot at a scorching 45.7 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the period of June 10-13, warning residents to brace for exceptionally high temperatures, with certain outer Delhi areas expected to experience even more intense heatwaves.
The latest data from the IMD reveals that several parts of Delhi experienced heatwave conditions on Sunday, marking a resurgence after a brief respite of three days. While the base station at Safdarjung recorded a maximum temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius, stations in Narela, Najafgarh, Pitampura, and the Sports Complex in CWG village near Akshardham registered temperatures indicative of a heatwave.
Preliminary reports indicate that Palam recorded a maximum temperature of 43.5°C, Lodhi Road 43°C, Ridge 43.7°C, Ayanagar 43.9°C, Najafgarh 45.5°C, Narela 45.7°C, Pitampura 44.8°C, Pusa 44.1°C, Sports Complex 44.8°C, and Raj Ghat 42.4°C. These figures underscore the severity of the heatwave gripping the capital.
Meteorological experts attribute the relentless heatwave to dry and warm winds from Rajasthan, coupled with clear skies, resulting in temperatures soaring above normal levels. The Met department forecasts a further increase in temperatures, with Monday and Tuesday likely to witness maximum temperatures of 44 and 45 degrees Celsius, respectively.
Delhi’s recent encounter with scorching temperatures saw parts of the city under a prolonged heatwave for 12 consecutive days until June 6. However, a brief reprieve was experienced due to very light rain, cloudy skies, and a shift in wind direction to easterly, providing temporary relief from the oppressive heat.
The IMD classifies a day as a heatwave when the maximum temperature exceeds 4.5 degrees Celsius above normal, with the maximum temperature touching at least 40 degrees Celsius. The situation becomes even more critical if the mercury climbs to 45 degrees Celsius, warranting heightened vigilance and precautionary measures to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme heat on public health and infrastructure.
