After days of thunderstorms and scattered showers, Delhi-NCR is now bracing for a return of extreme summer heat. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the dry spell is expected to continue in the coming days, increasing the risk of heatwaves across several parts of the capital and surrounding regions. The weather department has issued a yellow alert for some areas, warning residents to prepare for rising temperatures and poor air quality.
On Friday, Delhi experienced clear skies and scorching sunshine, marking a notable increase in daytime heat. The maximum temperature reached 38.2°C, which is 1.8 degrees below the seasonal average. Meanwhile, the minimum temperature was recorded at 25.6°C, which is 2 degrees below normal.
Humidity levels fluctuated between 41% and 78%, creating a muggy atmosphere for most of the day. The highest temperature in the city was observed in Aya Nagar, where the mercury touched 39.4°C.
The IMD forecasts that Saturday onward, Delhi will face intense heat with clear skies and strong sunlight. Temperatures are expected to climb to a maximum of 40°C, with the minimum hovering around 26°C.
Weather models suggest that the heatwave will intensify over the next 4 days, with temperatures likely to remain above 40°C in several areas. Alongside Delhi, neighboring regions including parts of Haryana and Chandigarh are also on alert for possible heatwave conditions on June 9 and 10.
From June 8 to June 10, strong surface winds are also expected during the daytime, which may provide slight relief from the heat but could also impact air quality.
The rising temperatures have also brought deteriorating air quality back into focus. According to the latest Air Quality Bulletin from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):
Although the pollution level is currently classified as moderate, forecasts predict it could worsen between June 10 to June 16, especially if strong winds die down. Until then, the winds might help disperse some of the pollutants in the air.
With heatwave conditions and worsening air quality on the horizon, the IMD and health authorities are urging citizens to:
Children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions are especially advised to take extra precautions.
Delhi is witnessing a sharp rise in temperature and a drop in air quality after a brief period of stormy weather. As the IMD issues heatwave alerts and the CPCB monitors rising pollution levels, residents must remain cautious and take preventive steps to stay safe during this early June heat surge.
Stay tuned to official weather updates and alerts as the situation unfolds.