Delhi continued to reel under extreme summer conditions as temperatures crossed the 44-degree Celsius mark in several parts of the national capital, prompting authorities to maintain a heatwave warning till May 24. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said dry and scorching winds have intensified heat conditions across Delhi-NCR, with little immediate relief expected.
According to weather officials, Safdarjung, the city’s primary weather station, recorded temperatures above normal, while areas such as Mungeshpur, Najafgarh and Ridge witnessed even higher readings. In some locations, the mercury reportedly touched nearly 46°C earlier this week, making it one of the hottest spells of the season.
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Delhi and surrounding NCR regions, warning residents about the possibility of severe heat-related illnesses. Officials advised people to avoid direct sun exposure during afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and limit outdoor activities unless necessary.
Meteorologists said hot and dry westerly winds are mainly responsible for the sharp rise in temperatures. While parts of Delhi witnessed brief thunderstorms and gusty winds over the weekend, the relief remained short-lived as heatwave conditions quickly returned.
The intense weather has affected daily life across the capital. Roads appeared less crowded during peak afternoon hours, while demand for electricity surged as residents relied heavily on air conditioners and coolers. Health experts also warned that prolonged exposure to such temperatures could increase risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially among children, elderly citizens and outdoor workers.
Several hospitals in Delhi have reportedly seen a rise in patients complaining of dizziness, fatigue and heat-related discomfort. Doctors have advised people to consume more fluids, wear light cotton clothing and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages during the heatwave period.
The weather department has forecast that maximum temperatures in Delhi may continue hovering between 43°C and 45°C over the next few days. Although isolated dust storms or light rain may occur in some areas, officials said widespread relief is unlikely before the end of the week.
The ongoing heatwave is part of a broader weather pattern affecting several northern and central Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan, where temperatures have also remained dangerously high.
