Delhi's heat isn't just weather anymore: What the warmest morning in 2 years reveals

New Delhi: Delhi witnessed its warmest morning in two years on Sunday as delayed monsoon conditions pushed temperatures and humidity higher, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) declaring heatwave conditions across the national capital.

The national capital recorded a minimum temperature of 31.1°C, making it the warmest morning since June 14, 2024, when the minimum temperature touched 33.3°C.

According to the IMD, the minimum temperature was 3.2°C above the seasonal average, while the maximum temperature reached 41.8°C at the Safdarjung weather station, 4.6°C above normal.

The weather department also said the heat index, or 'feels-like' temperature, touched around 50.7°C at 5.30 pm, reflecting the combined effect of high temperatures and humidity.

Heatwave grips the capital

Heatwave conditions prevailed across Delhi, with several weather stations recording temperatures above 42°C.

Maximum temperatures recorded included:

• Safdarjung – 41.8°C
• Palam – 42.0°C
• Lodhi Road – 42.1°C
• Ridge – 42.6°C
• Ayanagar – 41.8°C

Minimum temperatures also remained above normal across all major IMD observatories.

Why is Delhi so hot despite cloudy skies?

According to weather forecasting agency Skymet, the delayed arrival of the southwest monsoon is the primary reason behind the unusually hot and humid conditions.

Dry westerly winds from Pakistan continue to keep daytime temperatures high, while moisture-laden southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea are increasing humidity.

Meteorologist Mahesh Palawat explained that although these contrasting air masses generate afternoon cloud formation, they fail to produce widespread rainfall because moisture remains insufficient. As a result, temperatures peak before clouds develop, leaving residents to endure both intense heat and oppressive humidity.

When will the monsoon reach Delhi?

Skymet expects the southwest monsoon to advance into east Uttar Pradesh by June 30 or July 1, Uttarakhand by July 2 or 3, and reach Delhi around July 4, provided weather conditions remain favourable.

A developing cyclonic circulation over the coming days could also trigger isolated spells of rain in and around the capital.

Rain likely, but heat to continue

The IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by rain on Monday. However, temperatures are expected to remain high, with the maximum likely to hover around 41°C.

Delhi's air quality remained in the 'moderate' category on Sunday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 162, according to the Central Pollution Control Board's Sameer app.

Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours and monitor official weather updates as the city awaits the arrival of the southwest monsoon.