Delhi Heatwave: National Capital on 'red alert'; Najafgarh records 47.8 degrees Celsius

Delhi experienced scorching temperatures on Sunday, hitting a peak of 44.4 degrees Celsius, prompting the weather office to issue a 'red alert' due to severe heatwave conditions in the city. This marked the highest temperature recorded so far this summer, following a steady climb in temperatures over recent days.

While Safdarjung recorded a high of 44.4 degrees Celsius, four degrees above normal, other areas of the city witnessed even more extreme conditions, with temperatures soaring above 47 degrees Celsius. Najafgarh recorded a high of 47.8 degrees Celsius, while Mungeshpur reached 47.7 degrees, Aya Nagar hit 46.4 degrees, Pusa saw 46.5 degrees, Pitampura recorded 47 degrees, and Palam registered 45.1 degrees.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted mainly clear skies with heatwave conditions prevailing in many parts of Delhi and severe heatwave conditions in others, accompanied by strong surface winds at speeds of 25-35 kmph on Monday.


In a seven-day forecast, the IMD emphasized the need for "extreme care for vulnerable people" due to the heatwave. Heat-related illnesses and heatstroke pose significant health risks for people of all ages, especially infants, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases.

To combat the heat, the IMD advised staying hydrated, avoiding heat exposure, and keeping cool. It recommended drinking plenty of water and using ORS or homemade drinks like lassi, rice water, lemon water, and buttermilk.

A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius in the plains, 37 degrees in coastal areas, and 30 degrees in hilly regions, with a departure from normal of at least 4.5 notches. A severe heatwave is declared if the departure from normal exceeds 6.4 notches.

Throughout the day, Delhi's relative humidity fluctuated between 57% and 15%.

(inputs from PTI)