Key Points
- Delhi faces maximum temperatures of 42–44°C, with IMD issuing a yellow alert and warning of heatwave conditions from June 9–11.
- Nights remain hot and humid, offering little respite; humidity levels reach up to 70%.
- Rajasthan cities like Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Barmer, and Churu record temperatures above 45°C, with Sri Ganganagar peaking at 47.4°C.
- Haryana and Punjab also experience near-heatwave conditions, with temperatures close to official thresholds.
- IMD forecasts possible relief after June 12 as a new western disturbance may bring rain and thunderstorms to North India.
New Delhi: The national capital and much of North India are enduring an unrelenting heat spell, with temperatures soaring well above seasonal norms and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that the worst is yet to come. Delhi’s maximum temperature has hovered between 42°C and 44°C for several days, about 2–3°C higher than average, with humidity compounding the discomfort.
Delhi: Scorching Days, Sleepless Nights
- Temperature: IMD’s latest bulletin confirms that Delhi will see maximum temperatures of 42–44°C on June 10 and 11, with minimums staying between 26–28°C.
- Humidity: Humidity levels have spiked to 70%, turning the city’s hot days into muggy, restless nights.
- Alert: A yellow alert is in place, with the IMD urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
- Forecast: The heat is expected to persist until at least June 12, after which a western disturbance may bring some respite in the form of rain and thunderstorms.
Rajasthan: Extreme Temperatures, Dusty Winds
Rajasthan is experiencing even more severe conditions, with cities like Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Barmer, and Churu consistently recording highs above 45°C. Sri Ganganagar recently touched a scorching 47.4°C, making it one of the hottest spots in the country.
- Winds: Strong, dusty winds up to 40 km/h are sweeping across western Rajasthan, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
- No Rain Expected: The IMD predicts dry weather for the next week, with little hope for immediate relief.
Haryana and Punjab: Heatwave Looms
Haryana and Punjab are also under the grip of intense heat. Cities like Rohtak, Narnaul, and Bathinda are nearing heatwave thresholds, with maximum temperatures approaching 45°C. Even a minor uptick could push these regions into official heatwave status.
Why Is It So Hot? The Role of Western Disturbances
Meteorologists point to a lull in western disturbances—rain-bearing systems from the Mediterranean—as a key reason for the current heatwave. These systems typically bring rain and cooler temperatures to North India, but their absence has allowed hot, dry winds to dominate.
- Upcoming Relief: IMD forecasts suggest a new western disturbance may become active after June 12, potentially bringing rain, thunderstorms, and a drop in temperatures across Delhi, Rajasthan, and neighboring states.
Delhi and much of North India are enduring a brutal heatwave, with temperatures soaring 2–4°C above normal and no immediate relief in sight. Rajasthan’s desert cities are the hottest, with some areas exceeding 47°C. The IMD forecasts that the region will continue to swelter until at least June 12, when a new western disturbance could finally bring rain and a much-needed drop in temperature. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid peak sun hours, and take all necessary precautions against heat-related health risks.
