KKN Gurugram Desk | Residents of the national capital should gear up for sweltering heat over the next few days as meteorologists forecast a sharp spike in daytime temperatures. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi is expected to witness maximum temperatures hovering around 40°C by mid-week, with intense sunlight dominating the skies.

Scorching Heat Set to Return: IMD Predicts 40°C+ Temperatures

The IMD’s latest weather bulletin has indicated that Monday will remain partly cloudy, but the maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settle at 39°C and 26°C, respectively. By Wednesday, however, the mercury could cross 41°C, particularly in central and southern parts of the city.

On Sunday, the Safdarjung weather station—Delhi’s official meteorological observatory—recorded a maximum temperature of 37.8°C, which was 1.7 degrees below the seasonal average. The minimum temperature dipped to 23.6°C, also 1.8 degrees below normal.

Unusual Weather Patterns This Year

Delhi’s weather in 2025 has deviated noticeably from previous years. January through April saw higher-than-normal temperatures, marking one of the warmest beginnings to a year in recent memory. However, the early onset of May brought some unexpected relief in the form of intermittent light to moderate rainfall, which helped keep temperatures in check.

The capital has experienced a pattern of cloud cover and scattered rain showers, attributed to western disturbances and other atmospheric phenomena. These fluctuations briefly shielded residents from the intense heat typically associated with late April and early May.

Rapid Heat Rise Expected This Week

Despite the temporary cool spell, Delhi is now poised to enter a heatwave-like phase. IMD forecasts suggest that daytime conditions will worsen, especially due to the clear skies and reduced cloud interference, allowing unfiltered solar radiation to raise surface temperatures.

Wind speeds are projected to range between 15 to 25 kilometers per hour, which may provide momentary respite but won’t be enough to curb the heat. Humidity levels, which fluctuated between 90% and 33% on Sunday, are also expected to decline, making the air feel even drier.

Air Quality: A Temporary Improvement Amid Rising Heat

Interestingly, despite the rising temperatures, Delhi’s air quality has remained relatively moderate. On Sunday, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) averaged 158, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards.

IMD experts suggest that consistent wind activity and reduced vehicular emissions due to recent holidays may have contributed to the cleaner air. The AQI is expected to hover around similar levels for the next 48 hours, although localized pollution spikes may occur.

Most Polluted Start to the Year in Three Years

However, 2025 has also recorded one of the most polluted starts to a year in recent times. According to CPCB data, 60% of the days between January 1 and May 8 were marked by ‘poor’ or worse air quality.

Out of 128 days so far this year, 75 days had AQI readings in the ‘poor’ category (AQI > 200) or beyond. Comparatively, there were 63 such days in 2024, and 69 in 2023. Only 2022 witnessed a higher count, with 100 days of poor air, the worst since 2016.

Winter months continue to be the most problematic for air pollution in Delhi, with AQI levels frequently breaching the 400 mark, a level deemed ‘severe’. Pollution tends to subside gradually post-January, but this year, March and April still recorded a significant number of polluted days, defying the usual trend.

Climate Trends and Long-Term Concerns

Environmental experts attribute this year’s weather fluctuations to climate anomalies and changing wind and pressure patterns across North India. The extended impact of El Niño in early 2025 may have contributed to abnormal heat and precipitation cycles.

The irregular heatwave patterns, sudden rainfall, and erratic AQI readings signal a larger climate shift, which could have long-term implications for Delhi’s livability. Urban heat islands, vehicular congestion, construction dust, and industrial emissions continue to challenge efforts to curb pollution.

Tips for Residents: How to Beat the Delhi Heat

As Delhi gears up for a hot and dry week ahead, residents are advised to take necessary precautions:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid sugary and caffeinated beverages.

• Avoid Peak Sunlight Hours: Try to stay indoors between 12 PM and 4 PM, when the sun’s rays are most intense.

• Wear Light Cotton Clothing: Opt for breathable, light-colored clothes and protect your skin with sunscreen.

• Use Protective Gear: Sunglasses, hats, and umbrellas can offer physical protection from UV rays.

• Monitor AQI Regularly: Use apps or websites to check real-time air quality before heading outdoors.

• Keep Rooms Ventilated: Use fans and coolers effectively to circulate air and avoid overheating indoors.

Outlook for the Coming Week: No Respite Yet

The weather department has issued no rain alert for the week ahead. If the current trajectory continues, Delhi may experience prolonged heat stress, especially in areas with limited green cover and dense urban construction.

The next western disturbance, which could bring cloud cover or light rain, is not expected until late next week, according to preliminary satellite models. Until then, dry heat, UV exposure, and elevated AQI levels may continue to challenge residents’ comfort and health.