As summer tightens its grip over North India, Delhi-NCR is now under a severe heatwave red alert, with temperatures soaring well above 45°C. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has upgraded its previous orange warning to a red alert, citing dangerous weather conditions across the national capital region. The red alert will remain in force through Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures ranging between 44°C to 46°C in many parts of Delhi.
Delhi Scorches: Red Alert Issued
In its latest weather bulletin, released around 2 PM on Tuesday, the IMD cautioned that “heatwave conditions are likely to prevail at many places across Delhi-NCR.” The red alert is the highest level of warning, indicating a “very high likelihood of heat illness and heat stroke” for vulnerable individuals.
IMD senior scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar, speaking to PTI, added:
“Delhi-NCR is under red alert today and tomorrow, followed by an orange alert on June 13. Light rain and thunderstorms are possible on the night of June 13 due to a western disturbance, which may bring some relief.”
Temperatures Across Delhi Breach Dangerous Levels
According to official data:
Safdarjung, Delhi’s baseline observatory, recorded a high of 43.8°C.
Ayanagar scorched at 45.5°C, significantly above normal for June.
Across the city, hot winds and intense sunlight have turned daily life into a challenge. Streets remain deserted during peak hours, while hospitals are witnessing a rise in heat-related complaints such as dehydration, sunstroke, and fatigue.
Heatwave Spreads Across North India
The oppressive heat is not limited to Delhi alone. The IMD has also issued red warnings for Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab, all of which are reeling under similar conditions. The extreme temperatures are expected to continue from June 11 to June 14, especially in areas like:
Jammu and Kashmir
Haryana
Chandigarh
Northern Rajasthan
Punjab
The IMD has specifically forecast severe heatwave conditions for June 11 and 12, urging citizens to remain indoors during the afternoon hours and stay hydrated.
When Will Relief Arrive?
There is some good news on the horizon. According to the IMD, light rainfall and thunderstorms are expected from June 13 onward, thanks to an approaching western disturbance. This change in weather may downgrade the red alert to orange, offering temporary relief to the parched city.
However, until then, Delhi residents are urged to take maximum precautions, particularly the elderly, children, and those with existing health conditions. Authorities recommend:
Avoiding direct sun exposure between 12 PM to 4 PM
Drinking plenty of fluids, even if not thirsty
Wearing loose cotton clothing
Avoiding strenuous activity during daytime
Climate Crisis and Urban Heat
This latest red alert once again draws attention to the larger issue of climate change and urban heat islands. As Delhi continues to urbanize, green cover is shrinking and concrete is trapping more heat, leading to higher-than-average temperature spikes.
Environmentalists argue that without long-term measures such as tree plantation, sustainable infrastructure, and better urban planning, these summer extremes will only get worse in the years to come.
Final Thoughts
As Delhi swelters under a brutal sun, the red alert issued by IMD is not just a warning—it’s a wake-up call. The severity of this heatwave season underscores the urgent need for climate resilience and public health preparedness.
Stay safe, stay cool, and watch this space for updates on the approaching relief showers.
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