NEW DELHI – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant heatwave alert across multiple Indian states, warning residents of Delhi and at least ten other regions to brace for extreme temperatures. Forecasters predict mercury levels could soar to between 41 and 43 degrees Celsius over the coming weekend, with little relief expected for several days.
Widespread Heatwave Conditions Expected
Heatwave conditions are highly probable in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, persisting until April 26. Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand are also under similar alerts. Isolated pockets of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, and Mahe are expected to experience hot and humid weather, while parts of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Goa may face uncomfortably warm nights.
Delhi Braces for Scorching Days
Delhi's minimum temperature on Thursday was recorded at 25.4 degrees Celsius, a notable 2.7 degrees above the seasonal average. The IMD has specifically forecast a heatwave for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in the national capital, with maximum temperatures anticipated to settle around 42 degrees Celsius. Over the next three days, maximums could rise by an additional 2-3 degrees Celsius, indicating that temperatures will remain above normal throughout the five-day forecast period.
For Thursday, clear skies are expected alongside hot and humid conditions, with the maximum temperature ranging between 41 and 43 degrees Celsius, and the minimum hovering between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius. A heatwave is officially declared when the maximum temperature deviates between 4.5 and 6.4 degrees Celsius from normal, or when the actual temperature exceeds the 45-degree Celsius mark.
Public Health and School Advisories
Adding to the discomfort, Delhi’s air quality was recorded in the 'moderate' category on Thursday morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 191. An AQI between 101 and 200 is classified as 'moderate' by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
In response to the escalating heat, the Directorate of Education (NCT of Delhi) has issued guidelines for all government-aided and private unaided recognized schools. These directives aim to limit students' exposure to direct sunlight during peak heat hours. Schools are advised to curtail or move outdoor assemblies indoors, ensure safe and cool drinking water is available at multiple points on campus, and instruct students to carry adequate water bottles.
Beyond Delhi, states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha have also announced adjustments to school timings to protect students from the extreme heat during the peak summer period.
Rising Temperatures Across Regions
The IMD's forecast indicates a gradual rise of 3-5 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures across northwest India until April 26. Central India is likely to see a rise of 2-4 degrees Celsius, followed by stable conditions. Maharashtra and Gujarat are expected to experience a 2-3 degree Celsius increase, with Gujarat's rise concentrated between April 24 and 27. Northeastern states may also see temperatures climb by 2-4 degrees Celsius before conditions stabilize.