The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for the Delhi-NCR region as temperatures are expected to climb above 40°C in the coming days, marking the onset of intense summer conditions. At the same time, worsening air quality across the region has raised serious health concerns for residents.

According to the latest observations, Thursday was the hottest day of the season so far in Delhi-NCR. The Safdarjung weather station recorded a maximum temperature of 40.3°C, while Lodhi Road registered 40.1°C, Palam reported 39.4°C, and the Ridge area peaked at 41.4°C — all significantly above normal seasonal levels.

Forecasts suggest that temperatures will continue to rise steadily over the next few days. On Friday, Delhi recorded a maximum of 37°C and a minimum of 21°C, but the IMD has predicted that the mercury will reach around 40°C by April 21 and 22. The weather is expected to remain largely clear, with only occasional cloud cover and no significant rainfall in sight, offering little relief from the heat.

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Alongside the rising temperatures, air pollution levels across Delhi and surrounding regions have remained in the “poor” to “very poor” category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) at multiple locations continues to exceed safe limits, with readings such as 310 in Bawana and 281 in Ashok Vihar, both falling under the very poor category. Anand Vihar also recorded an AQI of 268, indicating persistently unhealthy air conditions.

In the National Capital Region, pollution levels have been particularly severe in industrial and densely populated zones. Greater Noida’s Knowledge Park-V recorded an AQI of 368, while Noida’s Sector-116 registered 312. Ghaziabad emerged as the worst-affected area, with Loni reporting a hazardous AQI of 387, among the highest in the region, alongside similarly alarming readings in nearby localities.

Health experts and authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and take precautions against prolonged exposure to heat and polluted air. With both temperature and pollution levels rising simultaneously, the region is expected to face compounded health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

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