Delhi has reported its warmest morning in two years on Sunday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The minimum temperature registered at 31.1 degrees Celsius, surpassing the seasonal average by 3.2 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature reached 41.8 degrees Celsius, leading to the declaration of heatwave conditions across the city.

The temperature recorded at 5.30 pm was approximately 50.7 degrees Celsius, demonstrating an alarming rise. The previous instance when Delhi noted a higher minimum temperature was on June 14, 2024, when the figure stood at 33.3 degrees Celsius. This year’s figures reflect persistent heat as the monsoon’s arrival is delayed.

At Safdarjung, the city’s primary weather station, the observations confirmed a maximum temperature of 41.8 degrees Celsius, exceeding normal levels by 4.6 degrees Celsius. High temperatures were also recorded at other locations, with Palam showing 42 degrees Celsius, Lodhi Road at 42.1 degrees Celsius, the Ridge at 42.6 degrees Celsius, and Ayanagar at 41.8 degrees Celsius.

Observations from IMD and Skymet

The IMD noted that minimum temperatures remained above average across all five weather observatories in the city. Notable readings included 31.1 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung, 30 degrees Celsius at Palam, 30.2 degrees Celsius at Lodhi Road, 28.7 degrees Celsius at Ridge, and 29 degrees Celsius at Ayanagar. Deviations from seasonal averages ranged from 1.4 degrees Celsius at Ayanagar to 3.2 degrees Celsius at both Safdarjung and Lodhi Road.

Skymet, a weather forecasting agency, indicated that the delayed monsoon and the interaction of dry and moist winds contributed to the unusual heat and humidity. Mahesh Palawat, Vice President for Meteorology and Climate Change at Skymet, elaborated that the monsoon typically reaches Delhi around June 27-28, sufficiently cooling temperatures and increasing humidity thereafter. However, a delay of roughly one week is now expected.

Palawat highlighted that dry westerly winds from Pakistan are contributing to the high temperatures, while southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea are responsible for the increased humidity levels. This interaction between different air masses is creating cloud formations without sufficient moisture for widespread rainfall, which results in sustained high temperature readings. Consequently, maximum temperatures and ‘feel-like’ temperatures have remained elevated.

Future Weather Conditions and Air Quality Status

The monsoon is anticipated to advance into eastern Uttar Pradesh by June 30 or July 1, with Uttarakhand expected to welcome it around July 2 or 3. If conditions remain favourable, Delhi could witness the monsoon around July 4. Palawat also mentioned the potential for a small cyclonic circulation, which may lead to isolated rain showers.

Relative humidity was noted at 44 per cent by 5.30 pm. The IMD forecasts that thunderstorms and rain are likely on Monday, with both maximum and minimum temperatures predicted to settle around 41 degrees Celsius.

In terms of air quality, Delhi was classified as moderate, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 162, as per the Sameer app. The Central Pollution Control Board defines AQI classifications, indicating that scores between zero and 50 fall within the ‘good’ category while values from 101 to 200 are deemed moderate. Delhi’s recent weather reflects the ongoing challenges posed by a delayed monsoon, resulting in both heatwave conditions and elevated humidity levels.

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