Delhi Weather Update: Heatwave Set to Return as Mercury Rises Above 40°C

KKN Gurugram Desk | The brief spell of pleasant weather in the national capital appears to be ending. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a steady rise in temperature in the coming days, with maximum temperatures expected to cross 40°C, bringing back intense heat conditions for residents across Delhi-NCR.

 Heat Relief Ends as Mercury Heads Toward 40°C

According to the latest weather forecast for Delhi, the city is likely to see rising daytime temperatures over the weekend and early next week. While Friday provided some comfort with relatively cooler weather and sporadic light rain, meteorologists say the trend is about to reverse.

Key Highlights:

• Maximum temperature may rise above 40°C in the coming days.

• Dry winds and clear skies are expected to dominate.

• Humidity will reduce gradually, intensifying the dry heat effect.

 Friday Recap: Moderate Conditions Provided Temporary Relief

On Friday, May 9, the Safdarjung Observatory, which serves as the city’s official weather station, recorded:

• Maximum temperature: 36.7°C (2.6°C below normal)

• Minimum temperature: 25.7°C (0.6°C above normal)

• Humidity levels: Varied between 78% and 42%

Light cloud movement in the morning helped block harsh sunlight temporarily, while light showers in areas like Palam contributed to cooler conditions and higher moisture in the air.

 Weather Forecast: What to Expect This Weekend in Delhi

The IMD weather report for Delhi suggests that the city will shift into hotter territory starting Saturday. Daytime skies will remain mostly clear, with sunlight dominating for longer hours.

Forecast Summary:

• Saturday (May 10) High: 36°C to 38°C

• Wind Speed: Between 10 to 20 km/h

• Next 48 Hours: Gradual rise in both day and night temperatures

• Rain Chances: Very minimal

With the absence of significant western disturbances, Delhi is unlikely to receive more rain in the next few days. As a result, the warming trend will continue unhindered.

 Air Quality in Delhi: Stable But Still in ‘Moderate’ Range

Despite the approaching heat, Delhi’s air quality remains steady, thanks to changing weather patterns and brief rain spells. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

• Average AQI (Air Quality Index) on Friday: 151

• AQI Category: Moderate

AQI Classification (As per CPCB):

• 0–50: Good

• 51–100: Satisfactory

• 101–200: Moderate ✅

• 201–300: Poor

• 301–400: Very Poor

• 401–500: Severe

Experts anticipate similar levels over the next two days, barring any major changes in wind speed or industrial activity.

 Delhi Residents Brace for Dry Heat and Intense Sunshine

With summer in full swing, residents across central, east, and outer Delhi regions are expected to feel a sharp rise in discomfort. The sudden jump in temperatures, combined with a drop in humidity and the onset of loo-like winds, is likely to increase heat-related fatigue.

Localities such as:

• Palam

• Dwarka

• Rohini

• Narela

• Mayur Vihar

• Karol Bagh

…are likely to be hit hardest as they often record higher localized temperatures due to dense construction, vehicular emissions, and poor green cover.

Why Is Delhi Getting Hotter? Explained

Several factors are contributing to Delhi’s rising temperatures this summer:

1. Lack of Western Disturbances

Western disturbances from the Himalayan region usually bring cloud cover and rain to the northern plains. Their absence means uninterrupted solar radiation over the region.

2. Urban Heat Island Effect

Delhi’s high-density urban zones trap heat during the day and slowly release it at night, keeping night temperatures high and days warmer than surrounding rural areas.

3. Low Wind Activity

Despite forecasts of 10–20 km/h winds, these are not strong enough to disperse accumulated heat and pollutants, leading to an overall rise in temperature.

 Climate Trend: Is This Normal or Extreme for May?

Historically, May is one of the hottest months in Delhi, often recording temperatures up to 46–47°C in extreme years. However, the current trend of early temperature spikes and fluctuating humidity could be part of a broader climate variability pattern.

Experts are observing:

• Increased frequency of heatwaves

• Shorter cool spells

• Unpredictable rainfall distribution

This makes urban planning and public health advisories all the more important.

 Health Tips for Coping with Heat in Delhi

As temperatures soar, medical professionals are urging residents to take precautions against heatstroke, dehydration, and UV exposure.

Suggested Precautions:

• Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily

• Avoid outdoor activity between 12 pm and 4 pm

• Wear cotton clothes, sunglasses, and hats

• Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks

• Keep elderly and children indoors during peak hours

Delhi hospitals often report a spike in heat-related illnesses during late May, so early awareness is crucial.

 What Authorities Are Doing

Delhi’s Municipal Corporation and Health Department have already begun issuing advisories on:

• Water tank installations in slums

• Sprinkling water in marketplaces

• Heatwave alerts via mobile and radio announcements

Additionally, Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) is reviewing emergency cooling centers in high-risk zones.

With temperatures crossing the 40°C mark soon, Delhi is officially entering its peak summer season. The brief spell of relief provided by pre-monsoon winds and clouds is now behind us. As the sun beats down harder in the coming days, both citizens and administrators must brace for a challenging summer ahead.