Delhi has been placed under a red alert by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) as the city faces one of the harshest heatwaves of the year, with temperatures soaring beyond 45 degrees Celsius in several parts of the national capital. The heatwave is accompanied by low humidity and dry south-westerly winds, worsening the overall discomfort for residents.

According to the IMD’s latest bulletin released at 2 p.m. on June 11 2025, heatwave conditions are likely to persist across the Delhi-NCR region, with maximum temperatures ranging between 44°C and 46°C. Notably, Ayanagar recorded the highest temperature at 45.5°C, followed by Safdarjung at 43.8°C, both significantly above normal seasonal levels.

The red alert issued by the IMD signifies a take action warning, cautioning citizens against prolonged heat exposure. It advises the public to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak hours, and pay extra attention to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Extreme Heat Persists Across North India

IMD Senior Scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar pointed out that the heatwave is not limited to Delhi, but is also affecting other parts of Northwest India, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. These states are also under red alert till June 12, with temperatures hovering in the mid to high 40s.

Northwest India is currently experiencing severe heat. Over the next 3 to 4 days, heatwave conditions will prevail in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, northern Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh

Possible Relief After June 13

While the current scenario is harsh, there is a glimmer of hope for some relief starting June 13, as a western disturbance is expected to affect the region. The IMD has forecast light showers and thunderstorms for the night of June 13 and June 14, which may bring temporary relief.

Following this, the alert level in Delhi is likely to be downgraded from red to orange, indicating relatively lower levels of severity, although residents are still advised to remain cautious.

The forecast for June 12 and 13 suggests partly cloudy skies and the possibility of dust-raising winds, gusting up to 60 kmph during thunderstorms. These winds, while helping lower temperatures marginally, could affect air quality and visibility.

Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates

Adding to the citizens’ woes, Delhi’s air quality has also worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 225 at 2 p.m., placing it in the poor category. The presence of suspended dust particles and heat-trapping pollutants has contributed to the discomfort.

High temperatures combined with poor air quality can severely impact health, especially for those with respiratory ailments or cardiovascular conditions. Medical professionals are advising people to stay indoors, use air purifiers if available, and keep rooms ventilated.

Authorities Issue Precautionary Guidelines

Given the rising threat, municipal bodies and health departments across Delhi have stepped up to issue advisories. Citizens are being urged to:

• Stay indoors during peak sun hours 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Drink plenty of water even if not thirsty

• Wear loose light-coloured clothing

• Use sunglasses caps or umbrellas when stepping out

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities

• Check on neighbours especially the elderly and children

• Report any cases of heat stroke or dehydration immediately to medical facilities

Hospitals in Delhi have also increased readiness, with emergency services on alert for heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, cramps, dehydration, and stroke

Why Red Alert Matters

A red alert is the highest level of weather warning issued by the IMD, used when there is an extreme likelihood of adverse weather events causing significant impact. In the case of heatwaves, this includes a high risk of heat illness, power outages, water scarcity, and strain on health infrastructure

Unlike a yellow or orange alert, a red alert calls for direct intervention, including restrictions on outdoor events, workplace advisory for labourers, and awareness drives in localities

The IMD defines a heatwave when the maximum temperature is at least 4.5°C above normal and severe heatwave when it is 6.5°C or more above normal. In many parts of Delhi and adjoining regions, the current deviation has crossed this threshold

The Role of Urban Heat Islands

Experts suggest that the urban heat island effect is intensifying the situation in Delhi. This occurs when urban structures like concrete buildings, asphalt roads, and limited greenery retain more heat, pushing temperatures even higher than surrounding rural areas

Delhi’s dense population, increasing number of air conditioners, and vehicular emissions are all contributors to this phenomenon. Mitigating this would require long-term urban planning reforms, such as:

• Promoting green rooftops and walls

• Expanding urban forests and tree cover

• Implementing heat-resilient building materials

• Encouraging public transport to reduce emissions

Looking Ahead

The IMD predicts that temperatures will begin to dip slightly after June 14, when light to moderate showers are likely to impact the region more widely. However, until then, the capital will remain under heightened vigilance due to extreme temperatures and health risks

Residents are advised to remain aware of daily weather bulletins and monitor advisories issued by local authorities. In the coming weeks, pre-monsoon showers could provide respite and also help improve the air quality, but the next few days remain critical

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