Delhi hits 43.6°C, IMD issues heatwave yellow alert

Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 43.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday, 3.4 notches above the seasonal average, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. The minimum temperature settled at 28.4 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal. The Ridge and Ayanagar stations reported the highest maximum at 44.6 degrees Celsius each, followed by Lodhi Road at 43.8°C, Palam at 43.7°C and Safdarjung at 43.6°C. Departures from normal ranged between 2.3°C and 4.8°C, indicating heatwave-like conditions across several parts of the city.

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for strong surface winds and heatwave in the afternoon and evening for the next three days. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 44°C and 30°C on Monday. The air quality in the city was in the 'poor' category at 4 pm, with an AQI reading of 205, according to Central Pollution Control Board data.

Separately, The Hans India reported that Delhi-NCR could see cloudy skies and light rain on Friday, with maximum temperatures expected to stay in the mid-30s degrees Celsius. Its forecast indicates a seven-day outlook where Delhi's maximum temperature may remain around 36°C from Friday through Monday, providing a potential break from the intense heat.