Delhi Is Under Red Alert

 June 11, 2025, New Delhi:

As Delhi continues to struggle with a severe heatwave, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert on Wednesday. Authorities have advised residents to take extra precautions as the heat index reached an alarming 49 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures in some areas surpassed 45 degrees Celsius. 

Delhi's primary weather station, Safdarjung Observatory, recorded a high of 44.7 degrees Celsius, while regions such as Najafgarh, Mungeshpur, and Palam reported temperatures above 46 degrees. The IMD predicts that the heatwave conditions will likely last until Friday, at which point there will likely be some respite because of potential moisture intrusion and changes in wind patterns.

According to an IMD official, "the prevailing heat is a combination of high temperature and humidity which is leading to extremely high discomfort levels." "During the hottest afternoon hours, particularly from 12 to 4 PM, citizens should remain indoors." A very high risk of heat illness and heatstroke is indicated by the IMD's red alert, especially for susceptible populations like the elderly, young children, and people with long-term medical conditions. 

Residents of Delhi have been advised by the government to stay hydrated, dress in light cotton, and stay away from physically demanding outdoor activities. In the meantime, Rajasthan, a neighbor, is still experiencing extreme heat. Temperatures above 47 degrees Celsius have been recorded in places like Phalodi and Barmer.

The pre-monsoon summers in western and northern India are among the worst in recent memory, and the arrival of the monsoon has already been postponed past its customary time. The Health Department has maintained emergency facilities on alert as hospitals in Delhi report an increase in patients exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion. Although there won't be any heavy rain in Delhi before the middle of June, the IMD has forecast a slight drop in temperature by the end of the week. If current trends continue, the monsoon, which was initially predicted to arrive around June 27, may now be further delayed.