Delhi is bracing for one of its hottest summers on record. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert as early heatwaves grip northern India. The summer of 2024 is expected to bring more intense and longer heat spells, according to recent forecasts.
Early Heatwave Hits Capital
Temperatures in Delhi have already crossed 40°C in several areas. The IMD reports that this is well above normal for early April. The situation is especially severe in Ridge, Najafgarh, and Pitampura, where heatwave conditions have already been recorded.
The forecast warns of frequent and prolonged heatwaves through April, May, and June.
What’s Behind the Extreme Heat?
Climate experts say this early surge is due to El Niño conditions, weak western disturbances, and global warming trends. India is seeing the consequences of climate risk more visibly each year.
According to IMD Director General M Mohapatra, this summer may witness “more than normal number of heatwave days” across north-west and central India.
Red Alert for Delhi-NCR
The IMD has issued a red alert for Delhi and nearby regions. The alert urges residents to:
- Stay indoors between 12 PM and 4 PM
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid outdoor physical activity during the day
- Use air cooling where possible
- Help vulnerable people stay cool and hydrated
- Long-Term Risk and Climate Change
India has faced intensifying heatwaves over the last decade. Urban centres like Delhi are especially vulnerable due to heat islands, high population density, and pollution.
The World Bank earlier warned that extreme heat could impact India’s labour productivity and public health significantly if not addressed through policy, planning, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The IMD and the Ministry of Earth Sciences are now emphasising early warning systems and city-level heat action plans to minimise human impact.
What Lies Ahead
- Delhi residents should brace for:
- Hotter-than-usual April
- Frequent red and orange alerts
- Greater risk for children and elderly people
- Spike in electricity and water demand
Citizens and urban planners are being urged to prepare for climate-adaptive responses, including green cover, water management, and heat shelters.
