Delhi Sees Season's Hottest Day at 43.7°C; IMD Sounds Red Alert

The national capital experienced its hottest day of the season on Saturday, with temperatures soaring to 43.7 degrees Celsius, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A red alert has been issued, forecasting severe heat across many parts of the city for the upcoming two days. The highest temperatures were recorded in various localities, with Mungeshpur hitting a scorching 46.8 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Najafgarh at 46.7 degrees Celsius, and Pitampura at 46.2 degrees Celsius.

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Delhi's primary weather station at Safdarjung noted a high of 43.7 degrees Celsius, marking it as the peak temperature this season and exceeding the season's average by over three degrees. The IMD has predicted heatwave conditions to persist in several areas of Delhi, alongside a partly cloudy sky and strong surface winds ranging between 25 to 35 kmph.

The impact of the heatwave has been highlighted in the IMD's seven-day forecast, emphasizing the need for extreme caution among vulnerable groups. The department warns of a very high likelihood of heat illnesses and heat stroke across all age groups, urging special attention towards infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic diseases.

To combat the effects of the heatwave, the IMD recommends avoiding heat exposure and staying hydrated. It advises drinking ample water and consuming oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or homemade drinks such as lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, and buttermilk.

A heatwave is officially declared when a weather station's maximum temperature reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius, deviating from the normal by 4.5 degrees or more. A severe heatwave condition is announced when temperatures exceed the normal by 6.5 degrees. On Saturday, relative humidity levels fluctuated between 70% and 18%, with a minimum temperature recorded at 27.1 degrees Celsius, slightly above the season's average.

Looking ahead to Sunday, the IMD forecasts maximum and minimum temperatures to likely reach 44 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius, respectively. This ongoing spell of intense heat underscores the importance of taking preventive measures to mitigate health risks associated with high temperatures.