New Delhi, June 11: A red alert was issued for Delhi on Wednesday as the national capital sweltered under an intense heatwave, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting maximum temperatures between 40.9 degrees Celsius and 45.0 degrees Celsius across various stations.
At 5:30 pm, Ayanagar was the hottest at 45.0 degrees Celsius, followed by Palam at 44.5 degrees Celsius, Ridge at 43.6 degrees Celsius, Pitampura at 43.5 degrees Celsius, Lodi Road at 43.4 degrees Celsius, Mayur Vihar at 40.9 degrees Celsius and Safdarjung – the city’s base station – reported 43.3 degrees Celsius.
The IMD bulletin said these temperatures were above normal by three to four degrees Celsius, triggering continued heatwave conditions likely to last until June 12.
A red alert – the highest-level warning – advises residents to “take action,” stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and limit outdoor movement, especially during peak afternoon hours.
“The severe heat is expected to persist till Thursday. A western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the night of June 13, which may bring light rain and thunderstorms in Delhi,” said Dr Naresh Kumar, senior IMD scientist.
Humidity levels in the capital fluctuated between 31 per cent and 73 per cent, with dry northwesterly winds prevailing throughout the day, aggravating heat discomfort.
The forecast for Thursday predicts maximum temperatures of 43-45 degrees Celsius, along with gusty winds (40-60 kmph) and a chance of very light to light rain or thunderstorm activity by evening or night. The intensity of the heatwave is expected to reduce from June 13 onward, with an orange alert replacing the red alert.
By June 14-17, Delhi could see a dip in temperatures to 37-42 degrees Celsius, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds, potentially easing the ongoing heat stress.
Meanwhile, the Health Ministry on Wednesday urged people to stay indoors during peak hours, and to drink safe fluids. “Extreme heat can be risky. Stay indoors during peak hours, eat lower-calorie food, drink safe fluids, and never leave kids or pets in parked cars,” the Health Ministry, said in a post on X.
“Call 108/102 if someone shows signs of heatstroke,” it added. (Agencies)
