Delhi has peaked further to record the highest temperature of this season. The base observatory at Safdarjung recorded a maximum temperature of 45.8°C, yesterday, surpassing an earlier high of 45.4°C registered on 26th May 2024. The capital city has had a record spell of heat with maximum temperature in excess of 40°C, for the last 16 days in a row, since 13th May 2024. The day temperature has remained above 45°C for the last three days, completing a hat-trick.
Most other parts of Delhi also recorded similar or higher readings. The highest of all, 49.9°C, was recorded at Mungeshpur and Just a whisker low of 49.8°C at Najafgarh. The highest temperature of an instrument purely depends on its exposure conditions and the surrounding areas. The nature of the soil, green coverage and water bodies, if any, are the major influencers of mercury levels. The surface and low-level wind direction and its strength are the ultimate deciders.
There is no respite likely for the next 48 hours. The maximum temperature will be retained at about 44°-45°C or more. ‘Loo’ conditions will persist, especially around noon and afternoon hours. Even the nights are fairly warm with the lowest temperature hovering around 30°C. The mercury is rapidly shooting to about 35°C anytime between 0800-0900 hrs. Steady temperature of 40°C or above is lasting till 2000-2100 hrs.
A western disturbance is arriving over the mountains on 30th May. The system will have mild induced circulation over North Rajasthan and Punjab. An east-west trough, in the proximity of Delhi, is quite likely to form. Light rain and showers are likely to occur between 30th May and 02nd June, over some parts of Delhi/NCR. No big respite is expected from these fleeting showers, of short duration. Still, a drop in temperature by about 3°C can be expected for this duration.
