The National Capital Region (NCR) is currently in the grip of a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring. The Meteorological Department forecasts a high of 44 degrees Celsius and a low of 27 degrees Celsius for Monday. Strong heatwave conditions are expected throughout the day, impacting daily life significantly.
The weather department warns of strong surface winds intensifying the heatwave in the afternoon. Hot winds are likely to persist even in the evening. Citizens are advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours and stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Relief is anticipated from April 28 onwards with a change in weather. Temperatures are expected to drop to a maximum of 41 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 28 degrees Celsius on that day. Light rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is also a possibility. Similar weather conditions are expected to continue on April 29, with temperatures ranging from 40 degrees Celsius to 26 degrees Celsius.
On April 30, partly cloudy skies are expected with chances of thunderstorm activity. Temperatures may further decrease to 38 degrees Celsius maximum and 24 degrees Celsius minimum. May 1 and May 2 are likely to have mostly clear skies with temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius during the day and lows between 24 and 25 degrees Celsius at night.
Air quality in the NCR remains a significant concern, with several areas reporting poor to very poor Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. Delhi’s Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, and Burari Crossing recorded AQI levels ranging from 212 to 260. In Noida, Knowledge Park-5 and Knowledge Park-3 had AQI levels of 263 and 197, respectively.
In Ghaziabad, Loni recorded a severe AQI of 353, categorized as ‘very poor’. Indirapuram, Sanjay Nagar, and Vasundhara reported AQI levels between 243 and 247. Experts warn that the combination of heatwave conditions and poor air quality could pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, and those with respiratory issues.
