Delhi experienced its hottest day of the season on Monday, April 21, 2025, with temperatures soaring to 41.3 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The minimum temperature for the day was recorded at 26.2 degrees Celsius, both figures approximately three degrees above the usual averages for this time of year.
The Safdarjung weather station, which represents the capital, was not the only one to exceed 40 degrees. The Ridge area reported a maximum temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius, while Palam saw 41.1 degrees Celsius, Ayanagar reached 40.9 degrees, and Lodhi Road recorded 40.6 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are significantly higher than last year's highest temperature in April, which was 40.5 degrees Celsius, and the peak of 40.6 degrees Celsius recorded in 2023.
Earlier this month, Delhi also experienced a heatwave from April 7 to 9. The IMD’s seasonal forecast had indicated a lower likelihood of rainfall and an increased number of heatwave days this April. A heatwave is defined as days when temperatures touch or exceed 40 degrees Celsius with a notable increase from normal temperatures for at least two consecutive days.
Since 2011, Delhi has recorded varying heatwave days in April, with counts of one in 2016, four in 2017, and eleven in 2022. The IMD's prediction for the week ahead suggests a “mainly clear sky” until Friday, April 25. Windy conditions are expected to last until Wednesday, with surface winds reaching speeds of up to 20 km/h.
Fortunately, no heatwave conditions are forecast for this week in Delhi. However, heatwave conditions are anticipated over Central India and parts of South Uttar Pradesh, South Haryana, Rajasthan, and South Punjab from Tuesday, April 22, to Saturday, April 26. Minimum temperatures in Delhi are expected to remain between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius until Thursday, gradually rising to around 27 degrees Celsius by the weekend.
Daytime temperatures are forecast to climb from about 39 degrees Celsius on Tuesday and Wednesday to approximately 41 degrees Celsius by Sunday, April 27. This pattern indicates that residents should brace for continued hot weather.
Additionally, the air quality in Delhi has also taken a hit, dropping to the “poor” category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 205 on Monday. In comparison, the AQI was 140 (moderate) on Sunday, 165 (moderate) on Saturday, and 219 (poor) on Friday. This fluctuation in air quality is a concern, as the AQI levels are expected to remain in the moderate range for the next two days, but could fluctuate between moderate and poor in the days following.
As the IMD continues to monitor the situation, residents are advised to take precautions against the heat. Staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, and limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours are essential steps to mitigate health risks.
In summary, the capital is experiencing a significant rise in temperatures, marking the start of what appears to be a particularly hot season. With the IMD's forecasts indicating more heatwave days ahead and rising minimum temperatures, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared for the scorching days to come.
