Real-Feel Temperature Shoots To 49 Degrees Celsius In Delhi, Orange Alert Issued

New Delhi experienced intense heat on Monday, with the real-feel temperature soaring to 48.9 degrees Celsius, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert for the next two days. Residents have been advised to take precautions against the ongoing heatwave.

The actual maximum temperature reached 43.4°C, which is 3.4 degrees above the seasonal average. Night temperatures remained high at 27.6°C, while humidity ranged between 25% and 48%, intensifying the heat discomfort.

The IMD forecasts that very hot weather will continue in Delhi at least until June 12, with daytime temperatures lingering around 44°C and warm nights near 28°C. Strong surface winds of 20-30 km/h are expected but are unlikely to provide much relief.

Heatwave conditions are also impacting nearby areas in the Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi region, including Hisar, Sirsa, Rohtak, and Ayanagar, with temperatures nearing 45°C. Monday marked the second consecutive day of heatwave conditions in the region.

The warm nights pose additional health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children, as cooling down becomes difficult after sunset.

Some relief is expected starting June 12, with forecasts predicting light rainfall and thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of 30-40 km/h in parts of Delhi. While the rain may not be heavy, it could temporarily ease the heat. However, rising humidity after rainfall may increase discomfort.

Air quality in Delhi was recorded as ‘poor’ on Monday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 235 at 4 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). AQI levels between 201 and 300 fall in the ‘poor’ category, indicating potential health concerns for sensitive groups.