Delhi is set to experience a welcome change in weather this weekend, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting light rain and thunderstorms on Saturday, April 19, 2025. This follows a scorching heatwave that has gripped the northwestern region of India, with temperatures soaring to alarming levels.
On Friday, April 18, 2025, the national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 41 degrees Celsius, which is 4.2 degrees above the seasonal average. The minimum temperature was noted at 25.6 degrees Celsius, also above normal by four degrees. Humidity levels fluctuated between 35% and 57%, contributing to discomfort for residents. However, heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms swept through many areas of Delhi, providing much-needed relief from the oppressive heat.
According to the IMD, the sky on Saturday is expected to be partly cloudy, transitioning to generally cloudy conditions by the evening. This shift in weather is attributed to a western disturbance affecting the region. The forecast indicates a possibility of light rain or drizzle, along with thunderstorms, lightning, and dust storms. Winds are expected to pick up, reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour, with gusts potentially hitting 60 kilometers per hour during the evening.
The maximum temperature for Saturday is projected to be around 38 degrees Celsius, while the minimum is expected to hover around 26 degrees Celsius. This slight reduction in temperature is a welcome change, especially after the intense heat experienced in the preceding days.
As the weekend unfolds, the IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in several northern states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh. These areas could witness heavy rain, snowfall, or hailstorms on April 18 and 19 due to the same western disturbance impacting Delhi. Moderate rainfall is also anticipated in these regions on April 20.
In addition to the northern states, Gangetic West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are likely to experience heavy rainfall on April 18, 2025. Meanwhile, Rajasthan is still grappling with a heatwave, which is expected to ease after April 20, bringing some relief to the region that has recorded extremely high temperatures. Dust storms are also predicted in western Rajasthan due to strong winds.
As for other regions, hot and humid conditions are likely to persist in Maharashtra and Gujarat over the next few days. The IMD has also cautioned that states in Central India, particularly Madhya Pradesh, may face an increase in temperatures in the coming days.
The air quality in Delhi, however, remains a concern. On Friday afternoon, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a reading of 219, categorizing it as poor. The Central Pollution Control Board defines an AQI between 201 and 300 as poor, indicating that the air quality is not conducive for outdoor activities. The residents of Delhi are advised to take precautions, especially those with respiratory issues.
As the weekend approaches, the combination of rain and thunderstorms is expected to not only cool down the temperatures but also improve the air quality temporarily. However, the long-term forecast indicates that the ongoing issues of pollution and heatwaves will need to be addressed to ensure the health and wellbeing of the city’s inhabitants.
In summary, Delhi's weather is poised for a significant change this weekend, as the IMD anticipates light rain and thunderstorms that may bring relief from the persistent heatwave. With temperatures expected to drop and humidity levels likely to fluctuate, residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions against poor air quality.
