IMD Warns Of Intense Heatwave In Delhi And North India, Temperature May Touch 44°C

North India is preparing for a prolonged spell of extreme heat as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that temperatures are likely to rise sharply over the coming days, with Delhi's temperature expected to touch as high as 44 degrees Celsius.

The weather department has predicted heatwave conditions across several northern states and Union Territories between May 18 and May 22. The affected regions are expected to include Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh as dry and hot winds continue to dominate weather conditions across northwest India.

Although the IMD has not yet issued a colour-coded alert, officials have indicated that temperatures are likely to remain significantly above normal during the upcoming week.

Delhi Likely To Face Heatwave Conditions

According to the IMD, Delhi may begin experiencing heatwave conditions from May 18 onwards as temperatures continue rising steadily.

On Saturday, the national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 40.8°C, which was slightly above the seasonal average. The Ridge weather station recorded the highest temperature in the city at 42.4°C.

The IMD has forecast partly cloudy skies on Sunday, along with the possibility of thunder development later in the afternoon or evening. However, the overall weather pattern is expected to remain extremely hot and dry.

Officials said maximum temperatures in Delhi are expected to range between 41°C and 43°C over the next few days, while some areas could witness temperatures climbing up to 44°C by Monday.

Minimum temperatures are also expected to rise, making nights warmer and increasing overall discomfort for residents.

Hot Winds From Pakistan And Rajasthan Raising Temperatures

Weather experts say the rise in temperature is being driven by changing wind patterns across northern India. Mahesh Palawat, president of Skymet Weather, explained that easterly winds have now shifted to northwesterly winds coming from central Pakistan and Rajasthan.

These winds are dry and extremely hot, which is likely to intensify heatwave conditions over the next few days.

According to experts, such wind patterns typically cause temperatures to rise rapidly across Delhi and nearby states during peak summer conditions.

Strong surface winds of around 20 to 30 kilometres per hour are also expected during the day, with gusts reaching up to 40 kilometres per hour in some areas.

IMD Predicts Gradual Temperature Rise Across Northwest India

The IMD said temperatures across northwest India are expected to rise gradually by around 3°C to 5°C until May 20.

The weather department has predicted that Monday could be one of the hottest days of the week, with temperatures likely to remain between 42°C and 44°C in Delhi and surrounding regions.

Similar conditions are expected to continue on Tuesday as well, with strong westerly winds persisting through both day and night.

The rising temperatures are expected to increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among people exposed to direct sunlight for long hours.

IMD Issues Health Advisory

Along with the forecast, the IMD has also issued an advisory asking people to take precautions during the heatwave conditions.
The department warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures may lead to dehydration, exhaustion and heat-related symptoms, particularly among outdoor workers, elderly people and children.

Residents have been advised to remain hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during afternoon hours and stay indoors whenever possible during peak heat periods.
Officials also warned that people involved in heavy physical work under direct sunlight may face greater health risks during the heatwave spell.

Heatwave Concerns Growing Across North India

The latest forecast has increased concerns over another severe summer season in North India. In recent years, several parts of the country have witnessed longer and more intense heatwaves, with climate experts warning that rising global temperatures are making extreme weather conditions more frequent.

The coming week is now expected to test residents across Delhi and neighbouring states as temperatures continue climbing steadily.

Authorities are likely to monitor the situation closely, especially if temperatures cross dangerous levels or heatwave conditions intensify further in the coming days.