Delhi Heatwave: Oppressive Nights Follow Scorching Days,Orange Alert Issued
New Delhi residents are enduring relentless heat, with stifling nights offering little relief after days of intense sunshine.The minimum temperature on Friday climbed to 31°C, marking the third consecutive night of oppressive heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, warning of continued hot and humid conditions [1].
Unrelenting Heatwave Conditions
While daytime temperatures dipped slightly on Thursday, the respite was short-lived as nighttime warmth intensified throughout the week, exacerbating cumulative heat stress and preventing residents from cooling down. The IMD warns that sustained high nighttime temperatures can worsen health outcomes, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Did You Know? The urban heat island effect can make cities significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas, especially at night.
daytime heat remained intense on friday, despite a marginal decrease.The maximum temperature at Safdarjung, the city’s base station, fell to 41.2°C,which is 1.3°C above normal but down from 43.9°C on Thursday.The city’s heat index, or “real feel,” also experienced a modest decline, reaching 51.5°C at 2:30 pm compared to over 53°C the previous day.
Weather Shift and Forecast
IMD scientist Krishna Mishra explained that the weather shift was triggered by the weakening of a mid-level ridge and a low-level anti-cyclone, which have been replaced by a trough in easterlies.This, combined with a western disturbance, is contributing to the slight dip in day temperatures and the anticipated weather activity over the weekend.
The IMD anticipates light rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds to persist over the weekend and into the first half of next week. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 39-41°C on Saturday and may decrease further. The minimum temperature is projected to range from 28-30°C and gradually decline in the coming days.
Air Quality Update
Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘moderate’ category, with the 24-hour average AQI recorded at 187 on Friday, slightly lower than Thursday’s 195.The Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) predicts this trend to continue through the weekend and into early next week.
Pro Tip: Monitor air quality levels and limit outdoor activities when AQI is high.
The AQEWS bulletin stated on Friday evening that the air quality is highly likely to remain in the moderate category from Saturday to Monday, with a similar outlook for the subsequent six days.
delhi Temperature Readings Across the City
| Weather Station | Temperature Drop (°C) |
|---|---|
| Ridge | 4.9 |
| Ayanagar | 3.6 |
| Lodhi Road | 3.7 |
| Palam | 3.3 |
Several other weather stations also recorded a noticeable dip in maximum temperatures: Ridge saw a 4.9°C drop, Ayanagar 3.6°C, Lodhi Road 3.7°C, and Palam 3.3°C.
Understanding Delhi’s climate
Delhi experiences an extreme climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The city’s location in northern India contributes to its susceptibility to heatwaves during the summer months, typically from April to June. Factors such as urbanization, deforestation, and changing weather patterns exacerbate the intensity and frequency of these heatwaves.
The India Meteorological Department plays a crucial role in monitoring weather conditions and issuing alerts to inform the public and government agencies about potential hazards. These alerts enable timely preparedness and response measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heatwaves
What are the symptoms of heatstroke?
Symptoms of heatstroke include high body temperature, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect someone is experiencing heatstroke.
how can I stay cool during a power outage?
During a power outage, try to stay in the coolest part of your home, use battery-operated fans, and stay hydrated. If possible, consider visiting a public cooling center or a friend’s house with power.
What steps are you taking to stay cool during this heatwave? Share your tips in the comments below!
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Disclaimer: this article provides general details about the Delhi heatwave and is not intended as medical advice.Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.