After a pleasant start to April with rain and cooler days, northern India is about to face a quick and strong rise in heat with the season’s first heatwave on its way.
Delhi-NCR could see its first day above 40 degrees Celsius by Wednesday or Thursday, with temperatures climbing up to 41 to 42 degrees Celsius over the weekend.
Many areas in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are likely to touch 41-44 degree Celsius in the coming days, too.
These expected readings are 4 to 7 degrees above normal and fit the official definition of a heatwave.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature at a station in the plains reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or more. It can also be based on how much the temperature is above normal.
A heatwave occurs when the departure from normal is 4.5 to 6.4 degrees Celsius.
Similarly, a severe heatwave is declared if it goes beyond 6.4 degrees Celsius. If the actual maximum temperature hits 45 degrees Celsius or more, it is also considered a heatwave, and 47 degrees Celsius or more counts as severe. The conditions need to be met at two stations in a meteorological subdivision for two consecutive days before it is officially declared on the second day.
A HOT APRIL AHEAD
Recent IMD updates echo a similar trend throughout April, with a forecast of a gradual rise in maximum temperatures by 6–8 degrees Celsius over northwest India in the coming days.
Delhi is expected to cross the 40 degrees Celsius mark by April 15 or 16 as the cooling effect of recent western disturbances ends and clear skies take over.
For now, temperatures in the capital are currently in the 35–37 degrees Celsius range but are set to climb steadily. This sharp shift comes after a cooler-than-usual early April in many areas due to rain and clouds.
Earlier, in March, Delhi recorded its hottest first week in decades, with temperatures crossing 35 degrees Celsius unusually early and staying well above normal.
The IMD’s broader seasonal outlook for April to June had earlier suggested normal to below-normal temperatures in many parts of northwest India for April, with above-normal heatwave days more likely later in the season.
However, the current dry and clear conditions are bringing the heat forward in northern and central regions.
As scorching heat is on its way to greet us, officials suggest staying hydrated and keep checking weather reports for the latest information.
Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty and avoid going out in the strong sun between noon and 4 pm whenever possible.
Special care is needed for children, elderly people and those with health conditions, as they feel the heat more quickly.
