As of today, deadly
These sweltering conditions ensured that Delhi remained on a red warning (meaning ‘take action’) on Monday. Residents were advised to stay in as much as possible due to the “extremely high likelihood of heat strokes”. The scorching temperatures, made worse by the lack of rain, are a double whammy for the area as it's not just the people that are suffering. The crops are at risk of failing too.
As per the weather department, heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely in Delhi and its neighbouring regions on Tuesday (June 18), with its effects likely to linger for the next couple days. The heat index could remain in the range of 49-51°C today.
A heatwave is recorded when daytime temperatures are above 40°C and the departure is above 4.5 notches. For severe heatwaves, the maximum temperature must exceed the 45°C mark or the departure must be above 6.5 notches.
Given the forecasts, IMD has issued a red warning over Delhi-NCR for today as well. With conditions likely to gradually abate after tomorrow, an orange alert has been issued for tomorrow, followed by a yellow watch. Individuals are strongly advised to stay indoors and stay hydrated.
A pesky western disturbance is throwing Delhi curveballs with partly cloudy skies. While you might think clouds bring relief, in this case, they're acting like a blanket, preventing the night-time temperatures from dropping significantly. This combination of hot winds and stubborn clouds is leading to what's called a "warm night," offering no escape from the heat even after sunset. Because nights aren't getting much cooler, the ground retains more heat. This "pre-heated" ground then makes the following days even hotter – a vicious cycle!
Fortunately, there's a slight chance of relief on the horizon. A new western disturbance is expected to approach northwest India later this week, potentially bringing some much-needed rain to Delhi. Temperatures are expected to start dropping by around 2 notches starting tomorrow. But complete relief can only be expected after the monsoon rains enter the region — the normal date being between June 25-30.