With temperatures soaring past 45 degrees Celsius in parts of the city, India’s capital is now officially under a yellow alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). As the heatwave stretches into another day, residents are struggling with both the oppressive conditions and a growing lack of relief in sight.
The IMD has warned that temperatures could remain dangerously high throughout the week, with dry, hot winds and clear skies ensuring that Delhi remains one of the hottest cities in northern India. Areas like Najafgarh, Mungeshpur, and Narela have already breached the 45°C threshold, while central parts of the city are not far behind.
“We are urging residents to avoid outdoor exposure during peak hours and to remain hydrated,” an IMD spokesperson said on Monday. “There is no substantial rainfall expected in the next 48 to 72 hours.”
A City on the Edge of Heat Stress
Delhi’s heatwave is not just uncomfortable—it’s becoming a public health crisis. Government hospitals and clinics have begun reporting a steady rise in cases of heatstroke, exhaustion, dehydration, and acute respiratory distress, particularly among the elderly and children.
The city’s already strained infrastructure is feeling the heat. Power grids are under pressure due to soaring air conditioner usage, while water scarcity has deepened in certain colonies due to higher demand and reduced supply.
Schools have shifted physical activities indoors, while construction and outdoor labor work is being rescheduled to early mornings or temporarily suspended in certain zones.
What a Yellow Alert Means
The yellow alert, one level below orange and red warnings, signals a moderate risk but calls for increased public awareness. It is particularly targeted at vulnerable groups, including people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and slum dwellers with limited access to cooling or ventilation.
Public health advisories urge residents to:
- Stay indoors during peak sunlight hours (12 PM to 4 PM)
- Increase fluid intake
- Avoid strenuous physical activity
- Wear light, breathable clothing
- Seek immediate care for symptoms such as dizziness, cramps, or confusion
A Larger Climate Concern
While heatwaves are common in northern India during the pre-monsoon period, experts warn that climate change is intensifying their severity and frequency. Delhi’s urban layout—characterized by dense concrete structures and minimal green cover—exacerbates the urban heat island effect, further trapping heat and prolonging nighttime discomfort.
“What we are seeing is not just a seasonal anomaly,” said Dr. Meera Jain, an environmental climatologist. “This is part of a broader pattern of climate volatility that demands a more urgent policy response—both in mitigation and adaptation.”
As Delhi awaits the cooling touch of the monsoon, expected only by the end of June, daily life remains suspended in heat. For now, the city is under advisory, the mercury is climbing, and the only certainty is discomfort.
