New Delhi, India — The Indian capital city of Delhi experienced its hottest day of the season on Friday, with temperatures soaring to a scorching 47.4 degrees Celsius, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The intense heatwave has affected daily life, prompting authorities to issue health advisories and urging residents to take necessary precautions.
The highest temperature was recorded in the Najafgarh area of southwest Delhi, where the mercury hit an alarming 47.4 degrees Celsius. Other parts of the city also faced extreme heat, with Mungeshpur reaching 46.5 degrees Celsius, Aya Nagar at 46.2 degrees Celsius, Jafarpur at 45.9 degrees Celsius, Palam at 45.1 degrees Celsius, and Ridge area at 45 degrees Celsius. The relatively cooler Lodhi Road area recorded 43.8 degrees Celsius.
Residents in the capital have been grappling with the sweltering temperatures. “It’s been unbearably hot. We are trying to stay indoors and keep hydrated,” said Sunita Sharma, a local shopkeeper in Najafgarh.
The heatwave extended beyond Delhi, affecting neighboring regions as well. Noida, a city adjacent to Delhi, recorded temperatures of 45.2 degrees Celsius, while Gurugram in Haryana reached 44.6 degrees Celsius. The extreme weather conditions have raised concerns about health risks, particularly heatstroke and dehydration.
Authorities have advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. Hospitals have been put on alert to handle potential cases related to heat-related illnesses.
The IMD has predicted that the heatwave conditions are likely to persist over the next few days due to a delay in the monsoon’s arrival. “The northwest region is experiencing higher temperatures due to dry winds and clear skies,” an IMD official stated.
The soaring temperatures in Delhi and surrounding areas are part of a broader pattern of extreme weather events in the region, raising concerns about the impacts of climate change. Environmental experts are calling for increased efforts to mitigate heatwaves through urban planning and increased green cover.
As the city braces for continued high temperatures, residents are hopeful for an early arrival of monsoon rains to provide much-needed relief from the relentless heat.
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Delhi records season's hottest day with 47.4 degrees Celsius
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