KKN Gurugram Desk | The capital city of India, Delhi, is currently experiencing the first signs of the scorching summer heat, with the temperature reaching alarming levels. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Wednesday’s temperature was recorded as the highest of the season, with Safdarjung reporting a maximum temperature of 38.9°C. This marks the highest temperature recorded in March in the last three years, surpassing the previous March record of 39.6°C on March 31, 2022, the hottest temperature recorded in the last few years.

Unseasonably Hot Weather in Delhi

As the summer heat intensifies, Delhi residents are feeling the brunt of the rising temperatures. The IMD forecast suggests that the temperature will remain high for the next few days, but some relief is expected in the form of winds and light clouds brought by a western disturbance. The heatwave has triggered several concerns, with temperatures surpassing the usual norms for this time of year.

On March 27, 2025, the weather department predicts the maximum temperature to be around 38°C, with a minimum temperature of 19°C. Although the heat continues to affect daily life, mild winds expected on Thursday are likely to bring down the temperature slightly by around 3°C, providing some temporary relief from the scorching sun.

Western Disturbance to Provide Brief Respite

The western disturbance that is expected to influence the weather in Delhi and surrounding regions on Thursday, March 27, will bring winds at a speed of 10-20 km/h. While the winds will not significantly reduce the intense heat, they are expected to lower the maximum temperature by approximately 3°C, making the air feel a little cooler. Additionally, light cloud cover may appear from March 27 to March 29, offering some temporary reprieve from the heatwave.

Although the clouds may offer some shade, the sun’s intense heat is still expected to remain a major concern during the day. As the temperatures rise, the public is advised to remain cautious while venturing outdoors, especially in the afternoon.

Forecast for the Coming Days: March 30 to April 1, 2025

The weather conditions over the next few days suggest a slight dip in temperatures by March 30 and March 31, with some regions experiencing a partial decrease in heat. However, experts predict that the first week of April 2025 will see temperatures reaching their peak. The temperature is expected to range between 35°C and 36°C, still significantly higher than normal for this time of year.

Despite the rising temperatures, the intermittent strong winds over the next few days will help reduce the intensity of the heat. The weather department advises people to stay hydrated, avoid stepping out during peak sunlight hours, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the sun.

Weather Advisory from IMD: Staying Safe Amid the Heat

Weather experts from the IMD have issued a heatwave advisory, urging residents to take necessary precautions due to the unusual rise in temperatures in March 2025. Typically, March in Delhi is a dry month with relatively mild temperatures. However, this year, due to the lack of significant rainfall and the prevalence of hot winds, the city is experiencing an earlier onset of summer, resulting in uncomfortable heat.

People are advised to stay indoors during the peak hours of sunlight, which generally fall between 12 PM and 4 PM. Additionally, the public is urged to wear light, loose-fitting clothing, use sunscreen when stepping outside, and drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and dehydration.

Air Quality Index (AQI): ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality in Delhi

Another concerning aspect of the current weather in Delhi is the air quality, which remains in the ‘very poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 6 AM on March 27, 2025, was 322, indicating ‘very poor’ air quality. The AQI scale ranges from 0 to 500, with the following classifications:

• 0-50: Good

• 51-100: Satisfactory

• 101-200: Moderate

• 201-300: Poor

• 301-400: Very Poor

• 401-500: Severe

The ‘very poor’ AQI in Delhi indicates a high level of air pollution, which can significantly affect the health of residents, particularly those with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Exposure to high levels of pollution can lead to breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and other health problems. People with respiratory issues, children, and the elderly are advised to limit outdoor activities and use N95 masks or pollution masks when necessary.

What Causes the High Temperatures in Delhi?

The intense heat in Delhi can largely be attributed to the lack of rainfall and the persistent dry conditions in the region. This is further exacerbated by hot winds blowing in from the northwest. Additionally, the western disturbance currently affecting northern India has had an indirect effect on the weather, causing fluctuations in temperature. These climatic conditions are contributing to the sudden rise in temperatures, making it feel much hotter than usual for this time of year.

Experts believe that these weather patterns could continue until the arrival of the monsoon season in June. Until then, temperatures are expected to remain on the higher end of the scale, and residents are advised to stay vigilant about the impact of heatwaves on their health.

Long-Term Outlook: Summer in Delhi

Looking further into the future, Delhi’s summer season is expected to be harsh this year. With April 2025 predicted to witness the highest temperatures, followed by a continuing dry spell and hot winds, the region could experience prolonged periods of heatwaves in the coming months. As the summer intensifies, the public must be cautious and follow weather advisories to ensure their safety and well-being.

As Delhi braces for intense heat, it is crucial for residents to remain proactive in managing their health and well-being. Following the IMD’s weather forecasts, staying hydrated, wearing proper sun protection, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours are essential steps in staying safe during the heatwave. Moreover, the ‘very poor’ air quality calls for residents to take additional precautions, especially those who are vulnerable to respiratory problems.