After a brief spell of rain brought temporary relief, Delhi is once again heading towards intense heat, with temperatures expected to touch 40°C by midweek, according to the India Meteorological Department.
The national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 34.7°C on Saturday, marking a steady rise after cooler conditions earlier in the week. Weather officials say this upward trend will continue over the next few days due to clear skies, dry winds, and the absence of rainfall.
Temperatures Set To Rise Sharply
The IMD has forecast a gradual increase of 6–7°C in maximum temperatures over the coming week. The mercury is expected to reach around 40°C by Wednesday and could climb further to 41°C by Friday, pushing conditions into heatwave territory.
Minimum temperatures are also on the rise. From 18.6°C on Saturday—below the seasonal average—they are likely to increase steadily and settle between 23°C and 25°C by Thursday.
Heatwave-Like Conditions Likely
Experts attribute the rising heat to fading northwesterly cooling winds and continuous sunshine. With no cloud cover or rain expected, the city could soon experience heatwave-like conditions, especially if temperatures cross 40°C and remain significantly above normal levels.
Meteorologists have also warned that several parts of north and central India may witness even higher temperatures, ranging between 42°C and 45°C in the coming days.
Air Quality Improves Slightly
Amid rising temperatures, Delhi’s air quality showed slight improvement. The 24-hour Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 123, categorised as “moderate,” compared to 151 recorded a day earlier.
Past Trends And What Lies Ahead
So far in 2026, the highest temperature recorded in Delhi has been 36.8°C. In comparison, last year saw an earlier onset of extreme heat, with temperatures crossing 40°C in the first week of April itself.
With clear skies and strong daytime winds expected, the coming week is likely to mark the beginning of peak summer conditions in the capital.