KKN Gurugram Desk | The capital city of Delhi is in the grip of an intense heatwave, with residents experiencing scorching temperatures and relentless humidity. On Thursday, the maximum temperature recorded was 43.9°C, but due to soaring humidity and stagnant air movement, the heat index—or “feel-like” temperature—climbed to a staggering 54°C, making it the hottest day of the season so far.

As Delhiites continue to battle the heat, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted some relief on Friday in the form of light rain, gusty winds, and dust storms, potentially lowering the daytime temperature by a few degrees.

 Delhi Records Highest Heat Index of the Season

According to the Safdarjung weather observatory, Delhi’s official monitoring center, Thursday’s maximum temperature was 43.9°C, which is 4°C above normal. The minimum temperature was also high at 30.7°C, 2.7°C above the seasonal average. The humidity levels ranged from 73% in the morning to 39% by evening, intensifying the oppressive conditions.

Experts say that the combination of intense solar radiation, high moisture content in the air, and minimal wind activity is leading to dangerously high heat index readings. “People are not just feeling hot; they’re experiencing the kind of heat typically felt in deserts,” a senior meteorologist stated.

 Delhi Becomes a Furnace, Streets Wear a Deserted Look

Most parts of Delhi resembled a furnace on Thursday. By 9 AM, the sun was already blazing, prompting many residents to stay indoors. Post 12 noon, the city saw a significant drop in outdoor activity, even in busy commercial hubs like Connaught Place and Palika Bazaar, where footfall was noticeably low compared to normal days.

“The air was hot, the roads were melting, and the whole city felt like it was on fire,” said a shopkeeper near India Gate.

 Weather Extremes Across NCR

The National Capital Region (NCR) also reported extreme heat conditions:

• Faridabad: 44°C

• Gurugram: 42.9°C

• Ghaziabad: 40°C

• Noida (Gautam Buddh Nagar): 42.3°C

In Mungeshpur, a locality in northwest Delhi known for its temperature extremes, the mercury hit 45.2°C, making it the hottest spot in the capital. It’s worth noting that Mungeshpur recorded 50°C last year, though the data was later dismissed due to suspected instrument errors.

 IMD Forecast: Dust Storms and Light Rain Expected Today

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has provided a much-needed forecast of partial relief. As per its bulletin:

• Friday’s maximum temperature is expected to be between 41°C and 43°C

• Minimum temperature may stay around 28°C to 30°C

• Light rain, dust storms, and gusty winds up to 60 km/h are predicted for parts of Delhi and NCR

While these conditions won’t completely end the heatwave, they could ease discomfort temporarily, especially during late afternoon and evening hours.

 Hot Days, Hotter Nights: No Respite After Sunset

The extreme heat isn’t just limited to daylight hours. Delhi’s nights are now warmer than ever, stealing away rest and sleep from the city’s residents. According to IMD, Wednesday night was the hottest night of the season, with temperatures not dropping below 30.7°C.

This follows a trend that has made Delhi’s summer nights particularly unbearable, with barely any cool breeze or temperature relief after sunset. Prior to this, May 21 recorded a nighttime low of 30.2°C, which was then the season’s highest minimum temperature—now surpassed.

 Power Cuts Add to Citizens’ Woes

Across NCR, frequent power outages are compounding the heat misery:

In Gurugram:

• Maximum temperature: 42.9°C

• Residents in multiple sectors reported unannounced power cuts on Wednesday night

• Electricity demand has soared past 2100 megawatts, straining the system

To address rising complaints, the electricity department has canceled all employee leaves until further notice.

In Faridabad:

• Temperatures peaked at 44°C

• Discom staff leave was canceled in response to heat-related outages

In Noida:

• Temperatures touched 42.3°C

• Many residents complained of intermittent power supply, adding stress during already extreme weather conditions

• Hospitals reported a rise in heat-related illnesses, with instances of two patients sharing a single bed due to overcrowding

Health Advisory for Delhi Residents

The rising heat index poses serious health risks, especially for the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions. IMD and Delhi Health Department have issued a set of precautions:

• Avoid outdoor activities between 12 PM and 4 PM

• Stay hydrated by drinking 3–4 liters of water daily

• Wear light cotton clothes

• Use fans, air conditioners, or coolers whenever possible

• Watch out for symptoms of heatstroke, including dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and headaches

People experiencing symptoms should immediately seek medical help.

 When Will Monsoon Reach Delhi?

While today’s dust storms and light rain will offer short-term relief, long-term relief from the heat will only come with the arrival of the monsoon. According to IMD’s latest projections, the monsoon is expected to reach Delhi 10 days earlier than usual, possibly before June 25.

This would mark a significant shift from previous years, where Delhi has seen delayed monsoons and prolonged heatwaves well into July.

 Summary: Delhi Weather Highlights

Delhi is witnessing one of its most grueling summer phases, with heat indices breaching dangerous levels and urban infrastructure struggling to keep up. The expected dust storms and light rain may offer a temporary breather, but full-scale relief depends on the early arrival of the monsoon.

Until then, Delhiites are urged to stay safe, stay indoors, and closely monitor weather updates. For the latest and most accurate information on Delhi weather news, heatwave alerts, and monsoon forecasts, stay tuned with KKNLive.com.