Delhi Sees Sharp Temperature Spike, Records Hottest Day of the Season
On Thursday, Delhi witnessed its hottest day of the current season as the maximum temperature soared to 34.3°C, which is a significant seven degrees above the normal range for this time of year. This reading surpassed Wednesday's high of 33.2°C, indicating a rapid warming trend in the national capital.
IMD Predicts Further Rise in Mercury Levels
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures are expected to continue climbing, with forecasts suggesting they may reach as high as 36°C by March 10. This projection highlights an ongoing heatwave-like condition affecting the region.
RK Jenamani, a senior scientist at IMD, explained the contributing factors: "The city has been experiencing dry conditions, with the last significant rainfall occurring on January 28. February saw only two instances of very light showers. In the absence of an active western disturbance, Delhi has been blessed with clear skies, which has directly led to this spike in temperatures."
Historical Context and Temperature Trends
IMD data reveals that the 34°C mark was breached in the second week of March last year, whereas in 2024, it was only crossed in the final week of the month. This year's delayed onset of higher temperatures contrasts with last year's patterns.
Jenamani noted that summer in 2022 was the warmest in recent years, while 2023 remained relatively milder due to frequent thunderstorms. The current trend suggests a return to hotter conditions.
Night Temperatures Also on the Rise
Nighttime temperatures have followed a similar upward trajectory. On Thursday, the minimum settled at 18.2°C, which is five degrees above normal, compared to 15.7°C recorded a day earlier. Over the next three days, minimum temperatures are likely to range between 16°C and 18°C.
Detailed Forecast and Weather Patterns
The IMD bulletin stated: "A gradual increase of 3-4 degrees in maximum temperatures is forecast over the next five days, with no significant change thereafter. They are expected to remain appreciably above normal (3.1°C to 5°C) to markedly above normal (5.1°C or more) for the next seven days."
Maximum temperatures are anticipated to hover between 33°C and 35°C from Friday to Monday, potentially peaking at 36°C by March 10. Delhi has already recorded temperatures above 30°C for nine consecutive days, underscoring the persistent warmth.
February Weather Recap and Air Quality Update
IMD data shows that maximum temperatures remained above normal through most of February, dipping below normal only twice—to 17.5°C on February 2 and 21.1°C on February 18—when a weak western disturbance brought drizzle and overcast skies.
In terms of historical highs, last year's peak March temperature was 38.9°C on March 26, while in 2024, it reached 37.8°C on March 29.
Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the 'moderate' category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 142 on Thursday. It is expected to stay moderate on Friday but may deteriorate to 'poor' by Saturday, adding another layer of concern for residents.
This combination of rising temperatures and fluctuating air quality poses challenges for public health and daily life in Delhi, as the city braces for potentially hotter days ahead.
