A red alert has been suddenly issued in Delhi, the capital of India. This red alert comes as the heat index temperature has reached an alarming 51.9 degrees Celsius amidst intense heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that severe heatwave conditions are prevailing in Delhi. According to the meteorological department's forecast, this intense heatwave is expected to continue until June 13.
NDTV reported this information on Thursday (June 12), citing the Press Trust of India (PTI).
The news outlet reports that a red alert was issued in Delhi on Wednesday due to the extreme heat. Essentially, temperatures in various parts of the city have ranged from 40.9 to 45 degrees Celsius. Combined with humidity, the resulting heat index (the "feels like" temperature) surged to 51.9 degrees Celsius, which is extremely dangerous.
At 5:30 PM on Wednesday, Ayanagar recorded the highest temperature in India's capital at 45 degrees Celsius. During the same time, Palam registered 44.5°C, Ridge 43.6°C, Pithampura 43.5°C, Lodhi Road 43.4°C, Mayur Vihar 40.9°C, and Safdarjung 43.3°C.
The meteorological department indicates that this severe heat will persist until June 13. Following this, a Western Disturbance may enter Northwest India, potentially bringing light rain and thunderstorms to Delhi.
According to the IMD's advisory, the current temperature in Delhi is 3 to 4 degrees above normal, leading to continuous heatwave conditions. Temperatures are expected to remain between 43-45 degrees Celsius on Thursday, accompanied by gusty winds of 40-60 kmph and the possibility of light rain or thunderstorms in the evening or night.
NDTV states that a red alert means the public must take immediate precautionary measures, such as drinking more water, avoiding direct sunlight, and refraining from going outside during midday.