Delhi Faces Intense Heatwave Conditions as Temperature Crosses 45°C in Several Areas

Yugcharan News / 28 May 2026

Delhi witnessed one of the hottest days of the season on Wednesday as temperatures soared beyond 45 degrees Celsius in several parts of the national capital, triggering heatwave-like conditions and raising health concerns among residents. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the sharp rise in temperature was recorded across multiple weather stations in the city, with officials advising people to remain cautious during peak daytime hours.

The Safdarjung observatory, considered the official weather station for Delhi, recorded a maximum temperature of 44.3 degrees Celsius, which was nearly four degrees above the normal seasonal average. Several other locations across the city experienced even harsher conditions. Ridge recorded 45.6 degrees Celsius, while Ayanagar touched 45.4 degrees Celsius. Lodhi Road and Palam also reported temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius, indicating that extreme heat had spread across most parts of the capital.

Weather experts stated that dry winds and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight were contributing to the severe conditions. Officials said the current weather pattern resembled heatwave conditions, particularly in central and southwestern parts of Delhi. Medical experts and disaster management authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, especially during afternoon hours when temperatures remain at their peak.

The ongoing heat has significantly affected daily life in Delhi. Roads and marketplaces witnessed reduced movement during the afternoon, while many residents preferred staying indoors to avoid exposure to the scorching weather. Authorities also noted an increase in electricity consumption due to continuous use of air conditioners and cooling appliances.

The IMD has advised residents to remain hydrated and take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses. Health officials warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to dehydration, exhaustion, dizziness, and heatstroke, particularly among elderly citizens, children, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reviewed the prevailing heatwave situation during discussions with senior officials and ministers. According to government sources, ministries and departments have been instructed to adopt a coordinated approach to manage the impact of rising temperatures across the country. Citizens have been encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid direct exposure to sunlight, and follow official advisories issued by local administrations.

The severe heat in Delhi comes amid rising temperatures reported in several northern and central Indian states. Weather agencies have observed that many regions are currently experiencing unusually high daytime temperatures due to dry atmospheric conditions and delayed rainfall activity. Experts believe that changing climatic patterns and prolonged dry spells may be contributing to more frequent and intense heat conditions in urban areas.

While Delhi remained under intense heat, the India Meteorological Department forecast possible relief in some neighbouring states. Uttarakhand, for instance, is expected to receive rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning activity, hailstorms, and gusty winds over the next few days. IMD officials in Dehradun issued orange alerts for several districts, including Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh.

According to weather authorities, wind speeds in some hill districts could reach up to 60 kilometres per hour at isolated places. Heavy rainfall is also likely in parts of Uttarakhand between May 28 and May 29. Officials stated that the expected weather changes could provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat conditions in northern India.

The impact of rising temperatures is also being felt in sectors such as transportation and infrastructure. Reports indicate that high temperatures have placed additional pressure on public utilities, including power supply systems and water distribution networks. Authorities in several cities have increased monitoring of essential services to prevent disruptions during peak summer demand.

In Delhi, civic agencies have intensified public awareness campaigns regarding heat safety. Emergency response teams and hospitals have reportedly been instructed to remain prepared for any rise in heat-related medical cases. Experts have advised people working outdoors, including labourers, delivery workers, traffic personnel, and street vendors, to take regular breaks and consume sufficient fluids throughout the day.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that Indian cities may continue facing more severe and prolonged heat episodes in the coming years. Urbanisation, reduction in green cover, and increased concrete infrastructure are believed to be intensifying the “urban heat island” effect, which causes cities to retain more heat than surrounding rural regions.

The current weather conditions have also sparked discussions regarding climate resilience and preparedness in metropolitan regions. Specialists suggest that long-term planning involving urban forestry, sustainable infrastructure, water conservation, and public cooling spaces could become increasingly important as temperatures continue to rise.

Apart from the weather developments, Wednesday also witnessed several significant national and international updates across politics, economy, governance, and public administration.

The Supreme Court upheld the retrospective 28 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) levy on online gaming firms, ruling that such taxation was constitutionally valid. Online gaming companies had reportedly challenged the retrospective implementation of the tax structure, arguing that the levy placed excessive financial pressure on the sector. However, the court observed that online gaming operators could be treated as suppliers of actionable claims under the GST framework.

In another important development, the Union Cabinet approved the Sarthak Public Distribution System (PDS) Scheme with a reported outlay of approximately Rs 25,000 crore. Government officials stated that the scheme aims to modernise ration distribution systems, strengthen foodgrain logistics, and improve transparency in public welfare delivery mechanisms over the next several years.

Prime Minister Modi also reviewed infrastructure projects worth nearly Rs 30,000 crore under the PRAGATI platform. Officials said the projects include developments in the railway, power, and road sectors spread across multiple states. The Prime Minister reportedly stressed the importance of timely implementation and cooperative governance between the Centre and state administrations.

Meanwhile, political developments continued to draw attention in various states. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and raised issues concerning fishermen reportedly detained by Sri Lankan authorities. Sources indicated that discussions also included cultural and administrative matters linked to state government functions.

Separately, the Supreme Court made observations regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, stating that maintaining accurate voter lists was linked to ensuring free and fair elections. Officials stated that verification exercises and voter record updates would continue in accordance with constitutional procedures.

On the international front, reports surrounding negotiations involving the United States and Iran attracted global attention. While some media outlets claimed progress toward a possible framework agreement, White House officials reportedly dismissed certain reports regarding draft arrangements as inaccurate or fabricated.

Elsewhere, aviation authorities confirmed that an Air India flight travelling from Delhi to San Francisco returned safely to the national capital after a technical issue was detected during the journey. Airline officials stated that the aircraft landed safely as a precautionary measure and passengers were provided assistance and alternative arrangements.

As Delhi continues to battle extreme temperatures, authorities are expected to maintain close monitoring of weather developments over the coming days. Experts believe that unless significant rainfall activity emerges in northern India, heat conditions may persist in several urban regions.

Officials have advised residents to regularly monitor weather bulletins, remain indoors during extreme afternoon heat, and prioritise health and safety precautions until temperatures begin to stabilise.