Key Points
- Delhi and much of North India are under a yellow alert for severe heatwave conditions from April 25–26, with maximum temperatures expected to reach 43°C.
- Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘poor’ category, with AQI above 220, and is not expected to improve soon.
- Uttar Pradesh is also experiencing a prolonged heatwave, with Kanpur recording 44°C and warnings in place for at least the next three days.
- Uttarakhand’s plains are grappling with intense heat and dry weather, while some hilly areas may see light rain.
- Residents are advised to avoid direct sun, stay hydrated, and take precautions, especially vulnerable groups.
New Delhi: Delhi is set for a punishing spell of weather as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for severe heatwave conditions on Friday and Saturday. The city’s maximum temperature is forecast to climb between 41°C and 43°C up to 4°C above normal driven by clear skies and dry westerly winds. Daytime hot winds are expected to reach speeds of 10–20 km/h, with gusts up to 30 km/h.
On Thursday, Delhi sizzled with a maximum of 41.2°C at Safdarjung and an even higher 42.7°C at the Ridge, marking the second hottest day of the season. The minimum temperature dipped to 20°C, nearly three degrees below normal, while humidity fluctuated from 60% in the morning to just 13% by evening.
The IMD warns that these conditions meet the criteria for a heatwave, and the public especially infants, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses should take extra care. Precautions include avoiding direct sun, wearing light cotton clothing, covering the head, and staying hydrated.
Delhi Weather Outlook
| Date | Max Temp (°C) | Min Temp (°C) | Sky | Winds (km/h) | Heatwave Alert |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 25 | 41–43 | 22–24 | Clear | 10–20, gusts to 30 | Yes |
| April 26 | 41–43 | 23–25 | Clear/Partly Cloudy | 10–20 | Yes |
Air Quality: No Relief in Sight
Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘poor’ category, with the AQI hovering between 224 and 238 over the last 24 hours. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded an AQI of 227 on Thursday, up from 224 on Wednesday, indicating persistent pollution. Experts do not expect significant improvement in air quality in the coming days, and residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak heat and pollution hours.
North India Heatwave: UP and Uttarakhand Also Suffer
Uttar Pradesh:
The heatwave has gripped Uttar Pradesh as well, with Kanpur emerging as the hottest spot at 44°C. On Thursday, 26 districts in the state saw temperatures above 40°C. The IMD has extended the yellow alert for heatwave conditions in UP for at least the next three days. Most of the state will remain dry, though some eastern districts may see relief from April 27 onward.
Uttarakhand:
In Uttarakhand, dry and sunny weather has sent temperatures soaring in the plains, with Dehradun recording highs above 37°C. While the plains will remain dry, there is a chance of light rain in some hilly districts, offering brief respite.
Health & Safety Advisory
- Avoid direct sun exposure, especially from noon to 4 pm.
- Drink plenty of water and stay indoors during peak heat.
- Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes and cover your head when outside.
- Use air purifiers indoors if possible; avoid outdoor exercise when AQI is poo.
Stay updated for further advisories as North India faces one of the hottest spells of the season.
