The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday (June 11, 2025) issued a ‘red alert’ for Delhi, warning of an ongoing severe heatwave that has pushed temperatures across the city well above normal.

The highest temperature was recorded at Ayanagar, which touched a blistering 45 degrees Celsius, while Safdarjung, Delhi’s official weather station, registered 43.3 degrees Celsius. Other localities also reported similarly extreme conditions, with temperatures soaring three to four degrees Celsius above the seasonal average.

Red Alert and Its Implications

The ‘red alert’ is the highest warning level in the IMD’s heatwave alert system. It means that residents must “take action” to protect themselves from serious health risks, especially the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.

The IMD has urged citizens to:

• Avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours (12 noon to 4 pm),

• Stay hydrated throughout the day,

• Wear light-coloured cotton clothes, and

• Minimise exposure to direct sunlight.

The department said the severe heatwave will persist till Friday, and relief is likely thereafter.

Weather Outlook: Relief from June 14

According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, temperatures will remain abnormally high until June 14, after which a slight drop is expected as thunderstorms and gusty winds may sweep through Delhi and its surrounding regions.

Between June 14 to June 17, Delhi could see maximum temperatures dip to 37–42 degrees Celsius, which is still warm but less extreme than the current highs. The light to moderate rain and gusty winds expected in that period could offer temporary relief from the intense heat stress, the forecast said.

Government Response and Public Measures

To tackle the intensifying summer crisis, Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh inaugurated a new water ATM at a government school in Daryaganj on Wednesday. The initiative aims to ensure that no one in the city goes thirsty, especially in the scorching heat.

“No one in Delhi should go thirsty, especially in the harsh summer. Our government is committed to building a hydration-secure, heat-resilient Capital. This is just the beginning,” said Mr. Singh, adding that similar ATMs will be installed at more schools and public locations across the city.

The water ATM is part of the government’s broader heat action plan, focusing on:

• Ensuring water accessibility in public spaces,

• Strengthening emergency medical response to heat-related illnesses,

• Increasing green cover and shade shelters, and

• Enhancing public awareness through community alerts and advisories.

Rising Temperatures and Public Health Risk

The intense heat has caused mounting concern among public health experts, who have warned about a possible rise in cases of:

• Heatstroke,

• Dehydration,

• Skin disorders, and

• Respiratory issues linked to high air pollution and ground-level ozone.

Hospitals across Delhi have been advised to stay on alert, with emergency services ramped up in preparation for any spike in heat-related admissions.

Many labour-intensive industries, construction sites, and educational institutions have been advised to reschedule activities to early mornings or late evenings, or temporarily pause outdoor work during heat peaks.

The Broader Context: India’s Warming Cities

The current spell is part of a larger climate trend, with Delhi becoming increasingly vulnerable to extreme heat events. According to IMD’s long-term data, heatwaves in northern India are becoming more frequent, longer-lasting, and deadlier.

In recent years, urban heat island effects, shrinking tree cover, expanding concrete zones, and unregulated urban growth have worsened Delhi’s ability to handle temperature spikes.

To address this, Delhi’s urban planners are under pressure to:

• Promote sustainable cooling solutions,

• Green public spaces more aggressively,

• Upgrade public transport infrastructure to reduce emissions, and

• Expand the use of reflective building materials and heat-proof roofing in slum redevelopment areas.

What Citizens Can Do

Experts suggest the following precautions during a red alert heatwave:

• Drink water frequently, even if not thirsty.

• Use wet cloths or take frequent showers to cool down.

• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake, which can cause dehydration.

• Check on vulnerable neighbours or family members, especially seniors or those with existing health conditions.

• Stay updated with IMD forecasts and advisories via mobile apps or news bulletins.

Conclusion

As Delhi grapples with one of its harshest heatwaves this summer, the red alert by IMD serves as a critical warning to residents to prioritise health and safety. With the promise of rain on the horizon, relief may be in sight—but until then, precaution remains the best protection.

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