New Delhi – As temperatures surge in the national capital, areas like Najafgarh and Mungeshpur are experiencing extreme heatwave conditions, with daily temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius.
These severe conditions are significantly impacting the health of residents. Experts attribute the rising mercury in these regions to factors such as insufficient greenery and intense direct sunlight. On Monday, Najafgarh in southwest Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 48.6 degrees Celsius, which is eight degrees above the normal seasonal average. The minimum temperature was reported at 31.4 degrees Celsius, five degrees above the typical level for this time of year. Similarly, the Mungeshpur weather station reported a high of 48.8 degrees Celsius, also eight degrees above normal, with a minimum of 27.6 degrees Celsius, slightly above the seasonal average.
These areas have consistently recorded the highest maximum temperatures among all weather stations, creating a hazardous environment for the residents. The capital remains on red alert, having endured heatwave conditions for the past three days. Meteorologists predict that temperatures could escalate to 46 or 46.5 degrees Celsius and possibly touch 47 degrees. However, at standard stations like Safdarjung, which represent the capital’s official temperature readings, temperatures are not expected to reach 49 degrees Celsius.
An official from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) explained that the outskirts of Delhi, such as Najafgarh, are particularly susceptible to sharp temperature increases due to several reasons. These areas are the first to be affected by the hot winds blowing from Rajasthan, intensifying the heatwave conditions. “Heatwave conditions are expected to persist over the next few days, with areas like Mungeshpur, Narela, and Najafgarh being the first to feel the full impact of these hot winds,” the official noted.
The health implications of these extreme temperatures are evident, as the Delhi-government-run LNJP Hospital reports a rise in patients affected by heatwave conditions. Common symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, and unconsciousness. Health experts advise residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours and to maintain adequate hydration. Weather officials have also forecasted that the heatwave will continue for the next two days, after which a new weather disturbance is expected to affect North India, including the capital, potentially providing some respite.
This severe weather situation underscores the urgent need for strategic measures to mitigate the impact of extreme heat, such as enhancing green cover and implementing heat action plans to safeguard public health. As Delhi grapples with these harsh conditions, proactive steps are essential to protect its residents from the adverse effects of rising temperatures.
