After weeks of sweltering heat, the temperature in parts of Delhi-NCR was recorded at 36.9 degrees Celsius on Friday as rain, thunderstorms, and high winds lashed the national capital.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, similar weather is expected in the capital for the next two to three days, and a heatwave is not projected until May 30.
Light rain in Delhi expected today
Delhi is expected to encounter partly cloudy skies, very light rain, and thunderstorms in one or two spots, the Regional Meteorological Centre said. The maximum and lowest temperatures are predicted to be around 36 and 21 degrees Celsius, respectively.
A western disturbance that is active over the Himalayan region is predicted to cause occasional rainfall over northwest India during the next two to three days, including the national capital and its surrounding districts, IMD said.
Electricity officials claimed that there was a rise in the demand for power this season, hitting 6,916 MW, due to the heatwave. The city’s demand increased last summer peaking at 7695MW and there are predictions that it may even rise to 8100MW this year.
A heatwave is announced when the highest temperature at a certain location reaches 40 degrees Celsius in plain areas, 37 degrees Celsius in coastal areas, and 30 degrees Celsius in mountainous regions.
The IMD predicted that in May, there would be fewer heatwaves and higher-than-average maximum temperatures in the northwest region of India. IMD also predicted that there is a possibility of a minor delay in the southwest monsoon, which might lead to longer periods of above-average maximum temperatures.
In a recent study from the University of Cambridge, climate change is to be blamed for the severe heatwaves that are occurring in India. Due to the extreme impact of heatwaves, the study has rated over 90% of the country as being in a state of high caution or danger.
