Delhi-NCR is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius during the day and remaining uncomfortably high at night. As of April 28, 2025, the region is feeling the effects of heat that has persisted throughout the week, leading to significant discomfort for residents and impacting local tourism.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that the night temperatures have not dipped below 25 degrees Celsius, making it difficult for people to find relief even after sunset. In particular, areas such as Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram have seen some respite due to cloud cover, but the overall situation remains dire as the heat continues to dominate the weather patterns.
Dr. Naresh Kumar, a senior weather scientist at the IMD, stated, "Today, Delhi's maximum temperature could reach 40 to 42 degrees Celsius, with a night temperature around 24 degrees Celsius." Despite the oppressive heat, no heatwave alert has been issued, which has left many residents puzzled as the conditions feel quite extreme.
The intense heat is not just a discomfort; it has also had a noticeable effect on tourism in the capital. Popular historical sites such as the Red Fort and India Gate are seeing a decline in visitors as the scorching temperatures deter tourists. Reports indicate that the number of visitors has dropped significantly, as tourists avoid venturing out during the hottest parts of the day, which run from noon to 4 PM.
As for air quality, the situation is also concerning. The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi was reported at 247 on April 28, categorizing it as 'poor'. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) noted that this poor air quality has persisted, with the AQI hitting 246 at 4 PM the previous day. An AQI in this range raises health concerns, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Looking ahead, the weather forecast indicates a potential shift starting April 29, 2025. The IMD has predicted cloud cover that may provide some relief from the relentless sun. Additionally, there are expectations of light rain or drizzle following dust storms, which could help in cooling down the temperatures slightly. This change could be a welcome relief for residents who have been enduring the extreme heat.
In the broader context, the previous week was particularly hot, with maximum temperatures reaching 41.3 degrees Celsius on April 27, which is 2.3 degrees above normal. The minimum temperature on that day was recorded at 27.2 degrees Celsius, also exceeding normal levels by 3.4 degrees. This trend of rising temperatures has been attributed to a lack of rainfall, with only 0.7 mm recorded this month against the normal expectation of 16.3 mm.
Humidity levels are expected to fluctuate between 17 and 42 percent, contributing to the discomfort felt by residents. This week, a yellow alert has been issued for potential dust storms, which could bring strong winds ranging from 30 to 50 kilometers per hour.
As for the rest of the country, regions like Rajasthan are bracing for even higher temperatures, with forecasts suggesting maximums could reach between 44 and 46 degrees Celsius in some areas. The IMD has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to begin in parts of western Rajasthan, further exacerbating the situation.
In Uttarakhand, the heat has also taken its toll, with residents feeling the effects of rising temperatures. The weather department has indicated that the plains may experience strong winds due to new western disturbances moving through the area. However, the mountainous regions are expected to remain clear.
As the week progresses, it is hoped that the anticipated weather changes will bring some much-needed relief to the residents of Delhi-NCR. The IMD predicts that temperatures may start to drop slightly, especially as May approaches, which is traditionally associated with cooler weather.
In summary, the current heatwave gripping Delhi-NCR is causing significant discomfort for residents and impacting tourism. With temperatures expected to remain high in the coming days, the situation calls for caution as authorities monitor the conditions. The potential for relief from the heat is on the horizon, but for now, residents are advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
