Capital city Delhi has reeled under oppressive heat for the entire duration of this month, so far. The mercury remained well above 40°C on all the days between 01st and 19th June. The city has recorded a day temperature of above 44°C on 10 days, so far and for one week at a stretch from the 12th to the 18th of June. The highest temperature of this month was 45.2°C on 17th June and the lowest of 41.2°C was registered on 06th June. The month of June 2024 has witnessed an unprecedented prolonged spell of scorching heat and is possibly heading for the hottest month on record. Relief is likely during the last week of the month.
Earlier, the capital city recorded its warmest night of the last 14 years on 18th June 2024. The base observatory at Safdarjung recorded a minimum temperature of 34.8°C, about 7°C above the normal. The minimum temperature has been in excess of 33°C for 4 consecutive days between the 16th and 19th June, leading to extended spells of hot and humid nights.
Courtesy, a moderate dust storm last night and followed by some light showers in a few areas, the minimum temperatures dipped today morning. Mercury plunged to 28°-29°C over most parts, nearly normal at this time of the month. Moderate to strong winds since last night and continuing through the day have eased the day temperature significantly. The day temperature is unlikely to shoot and may stay close to just 40°C or so.
Western disturbance is tracking across the northern mountains. A cyclonic circulation is marked over North Punjab and Rajasthan region. Additionally, a trough is extending eastward from this system, passing north of Delhi, in close proximity. Such a situation is favourable for tall clouds in the later part of the day and early night. Dust storms are likely in the evening and night, accompanied by strong dusty winds, reducing horizontal visibility. Such a spell will arrest the rise in temperature even tomorrow. Chances of a repeat thunderstorm or dust storm tomorrow as well, are quite good.
After two days of suppressed mercury, it is likely to soar again on the weekend, 22nd and 23rd June. Winds of change are quite imminent, early next week. This could as well be a precursor to the monsoon. From the 24th onwards, easterly winds filled with moisture will sweep the city and suburbs, more so from the 25th of June. Monsoon is likely to keep its date with Delhi and bring streaming showers during the last days of this month.
