New Delhi: Delhi reeled under intense heatwave conditions on Friday as temperatures surged across the city, with Ridge recording a scorching 43.1°C, marking the highest temperature of the season so far.
At Safdarjung, the city’s base weather station, the mercury climbed to 41.9°C, making it the hottest day recorded this year. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwave conditions were officially observed at multiple stations, including Ridge and Lodhi Road, where temperatures soared well above normal levels.
Lodhi Road recorded a maximum of 41.8°C, which is 4.8 degrees above normal, while Ridge remained the hottest spot at 43.1°C, nearly 4.7 degrees above normal. IMD defines a heatwave when temperatures exceed 40°C and are at least 4.5 degrees above the seasonal average, or when they cross 45°C.
The weather department has issued a yellow alert for Saturday, warning of continued heatwave conditions in isolated parts of the capital. Daytime temperatures are expected to range between 42°C and 44°C over the weekend.
Night-time conditions offered little relief, with the minimum temperature recorded at 24.5°C, nearly two degrees above normal. IMD forecasts that minimum temperatures will hover between 25°C and 27°C in the coming days.
With both day and night temperatures remaining elevated, authorities have advised residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses as the city braces for prolonged extreme weather conditions.
