IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi for next three days; temperatures may touch 46 degrees
New Delhi, May 25
The national capital is preparing for another intense spell of heat after a short period of cloudy weather and slightly cooler temperatures brought temporary relief to residents. The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Delhi, forecasting heatwave conditions over the next three days with daytime temperatures expected to remain between 44 and 46 degrees Celsius.
According to the weather department, the mercury is likely to rise further before conditions improve later this week. The IMD stated that maximum temperatures could increase by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius within the next 24 hours and are expected to stay high until May 27. A significant drop of around 6 to 8 degrees Celsius is anticipated only after that period. Minimum temperatures are also expected to rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius over the next day before easing gradually towards the end of the month.
The yellow alert for Delhi will remain effective until May 27, warning residents to stay cautious and take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses. The IMD has also predicted severe heatwave conditions in isolated areas of Punjab, Haryana and Delhi during May 25-27, while heatwave warnings are likely to continue until May 28.
Humidity levels in Delhi were recorded at 37 per cent on Sunday morning, adding to the discomfort. Despite the harsh weather, the IMD has forecast the possibility of light rainfall in some parts of the city by Sunday evening. Greater relief is expected between May 28 and May 30, when light showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds may bring down temperatures across the region.
Several other states across the country are also witnessing extreme weather conditions. Red alerts have been issued for parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra due to severe heatwave conditions. Meanwhile, orange alerts are in place for Telangana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Karnataka.
In Delhi, air quality continued to remain in the "poor" category.
Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 293, Ashok Vihar (229), Aya Nagar (180), Chandni Chowk (157), DTU (130), IIT Delhi (217), JNU (154), Narela (246), R K Puram (212), Sonia Vihar (231).
— IANS
Reader Comments
Yellow alert means be aware. But honestly, these alerts are too common now every summer. Need more tree plantation drives and long-term planning for heat resilience in cities. Even an AQI of 293 at Anand Vihar? That's another crisis.
The daily life here is becoming unbearable. I've been in Delhi for work this week and cold water, AC, and fans are a must. Why can't administrations take steps to increase green cover and reduce heat island effect? Good that red alerts are there for other states too. Stay safe friends.
Heatwave in Punjab Haryana Delhi is seriously concerning for farmers too. When mercury touches 46, it affects not just health but crops and animals as well. And light rainfall predicted on Sunday? Kuch toh rahmat ho. Bihar and UP need more attention also.
Yellow alert is better than nothing, but I'm surprised by the high AQI readings too. 293 at Anand Vihar? On top of 46 degrees? That's double trouble. I hope people avoid going out between 12-4 pm. Elderly and kids need extra care. Pack a water bottle, use an umbrella, wear cotton.
Honestly, these alerts feel like a yearly ritual now. Government should set up more public cooling centers or at least ensure water availability across the city. States like UP, MP with red alerts need urgent action too. At least we know relief will come by May 28-30 due to thunderstorms.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.