IMD issues severe heatwave alert for Delhi, relief likely from May 29

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heatwave warning for the Delhi-NCR region for the next two days, with the maximum temperature likely to touch 45 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. However, weather conditions are expected to improve later this week as thunderstorms and pre-monsoon rain are forecast from May 29 onwards.
According to the Met Department, the national capital is likely to witness a maximum temperature of around 45 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, while the minimum temperature may hover near 28 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels are expected to range between 25 per cent and 40 per cent.The IMD said heatwave conditions are likely to persist across Delhi-NCR, accompanied by strong surface winds during the afternoon and evening hours. Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated, and minimise direct exposure to sunlight.The department also warned that hot and gusty winds could intensify discomfort levels during the day.Weather conditions are expected to begin changing from May 28, with thunderstorms and light rainfall likely in parts of the region. The maximum temperature on Thursday is expected to settle around 43 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may remain near 29 degrees Celsius.
According to agency reports,the IMD has forecast light to very light rainfall during the afternoon and evening hours on May 28, accompanied by strong winds and squalls with speeds reaching 50 to 60 kilometres per hour.A sharper drop in temperatures is likely from May 29 as pre-monsoon activity intensifies over North India. The maximum temperature is expected to fall significantly to around 36 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may remain close to 26 degrees Celsius.
The Met Department has also issued an alert for thunderstorms, lightning, squalls and light rainfall on May 29. Winds are expected to blow at speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour during thunderstorm activity.Thunderstorms and rain are likely to continue on May 30 and 31 as partly to generally cloudy skies prevail over the region. During this period, maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 35 and 36 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may range from 25 to 26 degrees Celsius.Although no major weather warning has been issued for these two days, the IMD said intermittent light rainfall and cloudy conditions are likely to provide continued relief from the prevailing heatwave.
From June 1 onwards, temperatures are expected to return to near-normal levels. The maximum temperature may rise to around 37 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to remain near 27 degrees Celsius. Partly cloudy skies are expected, with no major weather alert in place.Weather experts said the dust storms, thunderstorms, lightning and rainfall being witnessed across North, Central and East India during the final days of May are part of ongoing pre-monsoon activity.The rainfall expected around May 29 is being classified as pre-monsoon rain and is likely to bring significant respite to residents reeling under scorching heat conditions across Delhi-NCR.