The national capital had a small respite and the temperature dropped during the second half of last week. After having a scorching session of 45°C or more for the last 6 days of May, the mercury hovered between 41° and 43°C for the last 4 days. A record highest temperature of 46.8°C was recorded on 29 May 2024. The base observatory and representative of Delhi records at Safdarjung has a registered temperature of more than 40°C for 28 straight days, between 13 May 2024 and 09 June 2024. The inning is continuing and the current week will add to the record to raise the number to 35 days. With this, the earlier record of 31 days of more than 40°C in 2013 will be surpassed. The number of hot days will increase further during next week, as well.
A western disturbance is moving across the mountains of north India. Its influence is mild and also limited to the hilly states. Isolated and light weather activity may occur in the foothills of Punjab, some parts of Rajasthan and Haryana during the second half of the week. Delhi will stay far from the reach and is likely to remain dry.
The temperature is likely to reach or cross 44°C today. Similar records are expected for the entire week. Another prolonged spell of heat wave is likely for Delhi/NCR. Mercury level will climb to 45°C or more during this period. Moderate speed of surface wind will lead to ‘loo’ conditions from early forenoon to late afternoon hours. Small mercy that, it will be a spell of dry heat and the humidity levels will remain under check. The increase in the heat index on account of temperature rise will be balanced due to low humidity. However, the spike in temperature will trigger warmer nights and the lowest temperature may remain above 30°C. A big relief is likely only on the arrival of monsoon, scheduled at the fag end of the month.
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