In numerous areas of the city, it’s anticipated that the mercury will soar past 46 degrees Celsius. Concurrently, the India Meteorological Department has forecasted that Delhi will continue to experience heatwave conditions over the coming days.
The mercury in Delhi skyrocketed to an unprecedented level on Wednesday, reaching a scorching 52.3 degrees Celsius, as per data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This record-breaking temperature was observed at the Mungeshpur weather office, situated on the outskirts of the national capital, precisely at 2:30 pm.
For the past few days, a severe heatwave alert has loomed over Delhi and several northern and central Indian states, as temperatures surged to their highest levels in numerous districts, as indicated by IMD data.
This surge in temperature follows closely on the heels of Delhi almost breaching the 50 degrees Celsius mark at three of its weather stations in the outlying regions. Recent reports from the Mungeshpur, Narela, and Najafgarh weather offices have consistently depicted extreme temperatures. Earlier, Rajasthan’s Churu had claimed the title of the warmest district of the season, registering a scorching 50.5 degrees Celsius.
Experts attribute the relentless heatwaves from Rajasthan as a significant factor contributing to the capital’s extreme temperatures. Mahesh Palawat, vice-president of Meteorology and Climate Change at Skymet Weather, pointed out, “In open areas with vacant land, there is increased radiation. Direct sunlight and lack of shade make these regions exceptionally hot.” Kuldeep Srivastava, the regional head of the IMD, emphasized that parts of Delhi, especially areas like Mungeshpur, Narela, and Najafgarh, are particularly vulnerable to the early onslaught of these scorching winds.
In response to the alarming situation, a red alert has been issued in the national capital, urging residents to take necessary precautions against the life-threatening heatwaves. Authorities are advising people to stay indoors, keep themselves hydrated, and minimize unnecessary exposure to the sun during peak hours.
The Centre defines a heatwave as occurring “when the actual maximum temperature remains 45 degrees Celsius or more irrespective of the normal maximum temperature.” According to IMD criteria, a heatwave is declared “if the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or more for plains, 37 degrees Celsius or more for coastal stations, and at least 30 degrees Celsius or more for hilly regions” for two or more consecutive days.