KKN Gurugram Desk | Delhi sizzled under an unforgiving sun on Monday as the capital recorded its hottest day of the season at 41°C, triggering heatwave conditions across several parts of the city. This marks the first major heatwave in April since 2022, raising concerns about the early onset of extreme summer in North India.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city is under a ‘Yellow Alert’ for the next two days, warning residents of continued high temperatures and heatwave-like conditions, especially during peak afternoon hours.

What Is a Heatwave?

A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature at a location exceeds 40°C in the plains and is 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal. Monday’s temperature hit that threshold in multiple parts of Delhi, especially in areas like Ridge, Najafgarh, and Palam.

Temperature Trends Across Delhi – April 7, 2025

 Winds at 40 km/h – What’s Causing the Heat Surge?

The IMD has attributed the rise in temperature to:

• Dry northwesterly winds blowing at speeds up to 40 km/h

• Clear skies and strong solar radiation

• Delay in western disturbances, which typically bring some relief in April

This combination is pushing the mercury higher and making Delhi’s heat unforgiving even in early April.

 Forecast Ahead: Heat to Continue, Some Relief from April 11

So, while next 72 hours will remain harsh, there is mild relief expected from April 11 onwards as cloud cover and moderate winds may help bring down the temperature slightly.

Health Advisory: Stay Cool, Stay Safe

IMD and Delhi health officials have issued a public health advisory, especially for:

• Elderly people

• Children

• Outdoor workers

• Pregnant women

• People with chronic illnesses

✅ Do’s:

• Stay hydrated; drink water every hour

• Wear light cotton clothes

• Use hats, umbrellas, sunglasses

• Avoid going out from 12 PM to 4 PM

❌ Don’ts:

• Avoid heavy physical activity in the sun

• Don’t consume alcohol or caffeine excessively

• Avoid crowded and closed spaces without ventilation

Schools & Outdoor Activities Under Review

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) is reviewing whether school hours need to be adjusted or outdoor sports restricted if the heatwave persists for the rest of the week.

Some private schools have already issued advisories to parents asking children to carry extra water and wear caps during the commute.

 Voices from the Streets

Ravi Mehra, a delivery executive, says, “Midday heat is unbearable. I’ve started working early mornings and evenings just to avoid the worst hours.”

Housewife Anita Sharma shares, “We’re already using ACs, something we usually wait till May for. This year, it feels like May came early.”

Meteorologists are pointing to climate change and urban heat island effects as factors behind early and intensified heatwaves. Delhi’s concrete-heavy infrastructure and reduced green cover are making the city more vulnerable.