The base observatory at Safdarjung recorded a maximum temperature of 42.5°C, yesterday. This is the highest so far in the season and overtakes the earlier high of 42°C recorded on 07th May. Palam observatory was still higher at 43.5°C. Heat is likely to build up further and the capital city may touch 44°C today. Saturday-Sunday will be no better and the mercury may breach 45°C, causing heat wave conditions.
There is no active weather system likely over the next one week or so. Clear sky and bright sun will keep the city pot ‘on the boil’. Heat will keep on accumulating in the reserve and a blazing weekend is expected with the mercury reaching 45°C, the second time in May in the last four years. Day temperatures are likely to hover around 44°-45°C between 17th and 24th May.
Since 2009, in the last 15 years, Delhi has breached 45°C on seven occasions: May 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2018, 2020, 2022. The highest maximum during this period was 46°C, recorded on 27 May 2020. An all-time high for the capital city is 47.2°C, measured on 29th May 1944. The first heat wave of the season is likely to grip the city and suburbs, possibly today onwards and may persist for over a week. Strong surface winds will trigger ‘loo’ conditions in the afternoon hours. Nights are also likely to be warm with mercury remaining above 25°C.
