New Delhi: A heatwave is set to intensify in Delhi between April 22 and April 24, with the maximum temperature expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department said on Tuesday. The minimum temperature during this period is likely to remain around 22 degrees Celsius.
Temperatures rise across stations
The national capital recorded high temperatures on Tuesday, with the Safdarjung base station logging a maximum of 38.8 degrees Celsius, which is 1.1 degrees above normal.
Other areas also saw elevated readings. Palam recorded 38.6 degrees Celsius, while Lodi Road reported 39.0 degrees Celsius, 2.0 degrees above normal. The Ridge station was the hottest at 40.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Ayanagar at 39.8 degrees Celsius.
Despite the rise, Delhi has not yet officially recorded heatwave conditions this season.
Minimum temperatures and AQI
On the minimum side, Safdarjung recorded 20.5 degrees Celsius, below normal by 2.2 degrees. Palam registered 22.2 degrees Celsius, while Lodi Road recorded 18.8 degrees Celsius. Ridge and Ayanagar reported 22.3 degrees Celsius and 21.2 degrees Celsius respectively.
Air quality in the city remained in the ‘moderate’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the Air Quality Index stood at 177. As per CPCB standards, an AQI between 101 and 200 falls in the moderate category.
Heatwave grips north India
The IMD said heatwave conditions across northern states are likely to persist over the next three days. Regions such as Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh will continue to experience intense heat.
In Uttar Pradesh, Banda recorded the highest temperature at 44.2 degrees Celsius. Other cities also reported high readings, including Sultanpur at 43.4 degrees Celsius, Prayagraj at 43.2 degrees Celsius, and Jhansi and Hardoi at 42.5 degrees Celsius each. The state capital Lucknow recorded a maximum of 40.2 degrees Celsius, which is above normal.
Dry weather to continue
The weather department has forecast dry conditions across Uttar Pradesh, which may increase discomfort and dehydration risks. Clear skies are expected in Lucknow and nearby areas, adding to the heat intensity. Authorities have advised people to take precautions and stay hydrated as temperatures continue to rise.