Delhi Braces for Intense Heatwave as IMD Issues Yellow Alert; Temperature to Touch 42°C
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi, warning of a severe heatwave gripping the national capital and its neighbouring regions from April 5 to April 8. The alert comes as temperatures are forecasted to rise to 42°C, intensifying discomfort across the city.
On Friday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 38.4°C — 4.4 degrees above the seasonal average — while the minimum stood at 18.8°C. Several monitoring stations across the capital mirrored similar trends: Ridge reported 39.4°C, Ayanagar 38.1°C, Lodhi Road 38°C, and Palam 37°C.
The IMD noted that the mercury is expected to climb further over the coming days due to clear skies and dry northwesterly winds. “A rise in temperature by 2–4 degrees Celsius over most parts of northwest and central India is likely during the next three days,” an IMD official said.
Neighbouring states, including Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and western Madhya Pradesh, are also under alert for extreme heat. The heatwave is expected to extend across large parts of the country, including Maharashtra, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and northern Karnataka.
According to meteorological experts, such extreme temperatures are a result of prolonged dry spells and the absence of western disturbances. “The situation is particularly concerning as we move deeper into April, with temperatures breaching normal levels much earlier than usual,” said a senior scientist at IMD.
Authorities have advised citizens to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Schools and workplaces have also been urged to implement heat-safety protocols.
The IMD’s forecast indicates a potentially prolonged spell of scorching heat, with little to no respite in the coming week. A red alert may be issued if the temperature continues to rise and exceeds 44°C in some areas.
As the nation braces for escalating temperatures, public health officials warn of increased risks of heatstroke and dehydration, especially among the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
With the heatwave intensifying across large swathes of the country, the IMD has urged all residents to exercise caution and prepare for extreme summer conditions. The capital, along with many parts of North and Central India, is likely to experience above-normal temperatures well into next week, making April one of the hottest starts in recent years
