Temperatures across the Delhi-NCR region have crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for heatwave conditions over the next two days as the region braces for further intensification of extreme weather.

According to the IMD forecast, the maximum temperature in the National Capital Region is expected to hover around 41 degrees Celsius on April 20 and 21, while minimum temperatures are likely to remain near 21 degrees Celsius. Skies are expected to remain largely clear, with no immediate relief from the prevailing hot conditions.

The weather situation is projected to worsen from April 22 onwards, with temperatures likely to rise further to around 42 degrees Celsius. Minimum temperatures are also expected to increase to about 22–23 degrees Celsius. The IMD has warned that heatwave conditions could persist throughout the day, affecting residents during morning, afternoon, and evening hours without significant respite.

Also Read: IMD Forecast Warns Delhi-NCR Temperatures To Cross 40°C Amid Poor Air Quality

Adding to the discomfort, humidity levels are expected to rise sharply in the coming days, potentially reaching up to 70 per cent by April 24. The combination of high heat and humidity is likely to create oppressive, sultry conditions. Authorities have advised people to avoid outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours and to stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Alongside rising temperatures, air quality in Delhi-NCR has also deteriorated, adding to public health concerns. Data from pollution monitoring agencies, including the Central Pollution Control Board, shows that several areas have shifted from ‘moderate’ to ‘poor’ air quality levels in recent days.

In Delhi, AQI levels recorded included 282 in Anand Vihar, 226 in Ashok Vihar, and 218 in Bawana, all falling in the ‘poor’ category. Aya Nagar reported relatively lower pollution at 169, classified as ‘moderate’. In Noida, readings such as 233 in Sector 1 and 209 in Sector 116 also reflected worsening air conditions.

The air quality situation is particularly severe in Ghaziabad, where several monitoring stations have recorded ‘very poor’ levels. Loni registered an AQI of 321 and Ved Vihar-Loni recorded 317, both indicating hazardous conditions. Other areas, including Govindpuram and Vasundhara, also reported poor to very poor air quality readings.

Experts attribute the combined deterioration in air quality and rising heat to stagnant atmospheric conditions and low wind speeds, which prevent dispersion of pollutants. Health authorities have advised vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory illnesses, to limit outdoor activity.

With extreme heat and worsening air pollution converging, officials have urged residents across Delhi-NCR to follow safety advisories closely as the region heads into what is expected to be a challenging week weather-wise.

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