Delhi Records Season’s Hottest Day as Heatwave Grips North and East India
Northwest and eastern India are reeling under scorching heat and high humidity, with Delhi witnessing its hottest day of the season on Monday. Safdarjung, the city's base weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 43.4°C, while Ayanagar peaked at 45.3°C. The severe heat, compounded by elevated humidity levels, has pushed the heat index—or 'real feel'—to around 49°C in the capital.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings for multiple states, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, over the next few days. A red alert has been sounded for West Rajasthan, while an orange alert is in place across other parts of northwestern India.
Wet-Bulb Temperatures Pose Health Threats
Experts warn that the combination of high temperature and humidity is leading to dangerously high wet-bulb temperatures—an index measuring how effectively the body can cool itself through sweating. In some areas like Ayanagar, wet-bulb temperatures may have crossed 30°C, approaching the threshold for what researchers now say is life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations.
According to recent studies, the critical wet-bulb limit may be closer to 31°C, significantly lower than the earlier assumed 35°C. A 2023 study from Pennsylvania State University showed that young, healthy individuals began experiencing uncompensable heat stress even at this lower threshold.
Heatwave Spreads Beyond Delhi
Other major cities are also suffering. Kolkata recorded 37°C with humidity exceeding 70%, while Lucknow hit 42°C and Patna 40.3°C. Rajasthan’s Ganganagar saw a scorching 47.3°C. These conditions suggest widespread wet-bulb temperatures nearing dangerous levels.
IMD: Monsoon Delay Intensifying Heat
IMD Director General M Mohapatra said, “We are seeing increased heat because the impact of western disturbances is fading and monsoon has not yet reached northwest India.” The monsoon’s advance has stalled for over a week, primarily due to dry air intrusion, and is now expected to resume between June 12 and 18.
Cyclonic circulations over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal may bring some relief via thunderstorms, but sustained relief for northern states hinges on monsoon progression. Meanwhile, the southern peninsula is forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rains between June 12 and 15.
As climate-related extreme weather becomes more common, health officials are urging residents—especially outdoor workers, the elderly, and those without access to cooling—to remain indoors during peak heat hours and stay hydrated.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)