Delhi Braces for Intense Heatwave as IMD Issues Yellow Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in Delhi, warning residents to prepare for intense heat from Tuesday through Friday. The mercury is expected to climb significantly, with temperatures projected to reach a scorching 44 degrees Celsius from Wednesday to Friday.
Temperature Forecast and Heatwave Criteria
According to IMD officials, the maximum temperature on Monday was recorded at 39.5 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees above the normal range for this time of year. The forecast indicates that Tuesday will see daytime temperatures hovering between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius, followed by a further increase to 42-44 degrees Celsius from Wednesday through Friday.
Met officials attribute the impending heatwave to consistent hot northwesterly winds and extended hours of sunshine. The IMD classifies a day as a heatwave when the maximum temperature is at least 4.5 degrees above normal and reaches a minimum of 40 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, a heatwave is declared if the maximum temperature touches 45 degrees Celsius or higher.
Historical Context and Seasonal Patterns
While no heatwave days were observed in April this year, the city experienced three such days during the second week of April 2025. In contrast, April 2024 and 2023 saw no heatwave days, but Delhi recorded its most intense heatwave spell in April 2022 with a total of 11 days. This season, the highest maximum temperature was recorded on March 17 at 41 degrees Celsius.
The minimum temperature settled at 22.8 degrees Celsius on Monday, one degree above normal, and is expected to rise to around 25 degrees by April 25.
Air Quality Concerns Amid Heatwave
Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality showed some improvement, shifting from poor on Sunday to moderate on Monday with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 181. However, the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts that air quality is likely to deteriorate again, turning poor on Tuesday and Wednesday.
This combination of rising temperatures and potentially worsening air quality presents a dual challenge for residents, emphasizing the need for precautionary measures during the upcoming heatwave period.
