Delhi residents woke up to clear skies and soaring temperatures on Wednesday morning as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a significant increase in maximum temperatures across Delhi-NCR. The city is experiencing a heatwave-like situation, with daytime temperatures steadily rising, while minimum temperatures remain relatively stable.

According to IMD forecasts, Delhi’s temperatures are expected to rise throughout the week, potentially reaching 40 degrees Celsius in the coming days. On Wednesday, the minimum temperature was recorded at 19.05 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature climbed to 37.2 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity stood at 7 percent, with a gentle wind blowing at a speed of 7 km/h.

The IMD predicts that the sky will remain clear until March 26. The maximum temperature is expected to touch 37 degrees Celsius on March 26, while March 25 and 27 will witness highs of 36 degrees Celsius, making these some of the hottest days of the month. From March 27 to 29, Delhi is likely to experience strong surface winds ranging between 20-30 km/h. However, despite the rise in maximum temperatures, the minimum temperature is expected to hover between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius.

Even as Delhi basks in clear skies, air quality remains a concern. On Wednesday morning, Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 235, categorizing it as ‘poor,’ according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The city’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 234 as of 4 pm on March 24. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions, as pollution levels continue to remain high.

Thursday is probably going to be another warm day in Delhi, with bright skies and rising temperatures. It is anticipated that the minimum temperature will be approximately 25.77 degrees Celsius, and the highest temperature may be as high as 38.74 degrees Celsius. It is recommended that people avoid lengthy sun exposure during the hottest afternoon hours and drink plenty of water.

While Delhi experiences a heatwave, different parts of India will witness varied weather patterns. IMD has forecasted rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Ladakh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand between March 26 and 28. Arunachal Pradesh is expected to receive rainfall on March 28 and 29, while southern states like Kerala and Karnataka are likely to experience rain on March 26.
With little relief anticipated in the days ahead, Delhiites are preparing for skyrocketing temperatures as the summer heat builds. As mercury levels continue to rise, the IMD is keeping a close eye on the situation and advising locals to take the appropriate safety measures.