Delhi cools as mercury drops 9°C in 48 hours
New Delhi, May 29
After days of scorching heatwave conditions that pushed temperatures above 45°C, Delhi residents finally got some respite as a sharp drop in mercury was recorded across the national capital over the past 48 hours.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed a significant cooling of 7 to 9 degrees Celsius within just 24 hours, bringing much‑needed relief from the intense summer heat.
On May 27, several areas in Delhi reeled under severe heat. The Ridge station recorded 45.6°C, Aya Nagar 45.4°C, Palam 44.6°C, Lodhi Road 44.6°C and Safdarjung 44.3°C.
By May 29, the situation had changed dramatically. The Ridge temperature plummeted to 36.8°C, Aya Nagar to 36.0°C, Palam to 35.2°C, Lodhi Road to 35.7°C, and Safdarjung to 36.8°C, marking a steep decline of nearly 8‑9 degrees in many places.
According to IMD officials, this abrupt change was triggered by a Western Disturbance affecting northwest India. The system brought strong winds, cloud cover, and light rainfall in some areas, helping dissipate the heatwave. Light showers and gusty winds played a crucial role in lowering both maximum and minimum temperatures.
A senior IMD scientist said this kind of temperature drop provides immense relief to citizens, especially the elderly, children, and outdoor workers who were struggling with heat‑related illnesses.
The department has forecast relatively pleasant weather for the next few days, with maximum temperatures likely to hover between 35‑38°C before any gradual rise.
The sudden cooling has also improved air quality marginally and reduced the risk of heatstroke cases that had surged in hospitals during the peak heatwave. Power demand, which had hit record levels due to excessive use of air conditioners, is also expected to ease slightly.
Meteorologists warn that while this Western Disturbance has brought temporary relief, May and June in Delhi remain unpredictable. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours, even as the weather remains cooler than earlier this week.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Thank God for the rain! My AC was running 24/7 and the electricity bill was going to be insane. But seriously, these weather swings are getting extreme. We need better urban planning and more green cover in Delhi.
Living in Delhi for work, and I must say this sudden drop is a blessing. My colleagues in the UK keep asking why anyone would choose to be here in May. Now I can tell them it's bearable sometimes! 😅
Great news for my elderly parents who were really struggling with the heat. My father had to be hospitalized for dehydration last week. Hope IMD's predictions for the next few days hold true. Stay safe everyone.
I wish the government would take these temperature swings more seriously and implement heat action plans properly. Sure, the rain helps, but we can't rely on weather alone every year. More shaded bus stops and public water coolers are basic needs.
Our neighborhood actually had a brief hailstorm yesterday evening. Felt like a different world compared to just 48 hours ago when we were melting at 45°C. Delhi weather is truly unpredictable, but I'm just grateful for this respite.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.