After a short spell of relief, rising temperatures are once again tightening their grip on the national capital.

On Sunday, the India Meteorological Department recorded 40.1°C at the Safdarjung Observatory, which stood three degrees above normal.

Earlier, Delhi had already experienced its hottest day of the season at 41°C on Friday. However, weather conditions shifted by evening, bringing rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds.

As a result, temperatures dipped briefly on Saturday, offering temporary comfort. Still, the respite faded quickly as heat returned.

Now, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions from Wednesday to Friday. During this period, temperatures may climb up to 43°C in isolated areas.

Meanwhile, forecasts suggest that Monday and Tuesday will see highs between 41°C and 42°C. Thereafter, the mercury is expected to hover between 41°C and 43°C through the week.

In addition, similar weather patterns are likely across neighbouring regions. Parts of Punjab, Haryana, and northern Rajasthan may also witness rising temperatures.

This trend is driven by persistent northwesterly winds and continuous sunshine.

On Sunday, the Ridge Observatory in North Delhi recorded the highest temperature at 41.8°C. Mungeshpur followed closely at 41°C, highlighting the spread of intense heat across different zones.

According to IMD guidelines, a heatwave is declared when the temperature reaches at least 40°C and exceeds normal levels by 4.5°C. Alternatively, any reading of 45°C automatically qualifies as a heatwave.

A recent western disturbance brought rainfall to the Himalayan region but has now moved away.

Another system may approach around April 23; however, it is expected to remain weak. Therefore, it is unlikely to provide any significant relief from the ongoing heat in Delhi.

As temperatures rise steadily, isolated areas may experience heatwave conditions starting Monday, which could gradually spread to more regions over the next few days due to persistent hot weather.

Image Credit: Ashwin Arun Yadav, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Summer_Heat.jpg