Delhi Reels Under Humid Heat; Light Rain, Thunderstorms Likely Today

July 4, 2025: Delhi woke up to a pleasant start on Friday as light showers brought relief from the previous day’s oppressive humidity. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), partly cloudy skies, very light to light rain, and occasional thunderstorms are expected throughout the day, though no major weather warnings have been issued for Delhi-NCR.

The maximum temperature is forecast to hover between 36°C and 38°C, while the minimum is expected to stay around 26°C to 28°C. No heatwave conditions are predicted for the region.

🌦️ Rain Improves Air Quality

The rainfall has significantly improved Delhi’s air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) measured at 76 at 7 AM on July 4 by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) — placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category.

🔥 Thursday’s “Real Feel” Hit 48.9°C

Despite a maximum temperature of 36.9°C on Thursday, Delhi experienced a sweltering afternoon, with the “real feel” temperature soaring to 48.9°C due to high humidity levels, which fluctuated between 59% and 89%. According to a Hindustan Times report, the discomfort index reached dangerous levels.

The wet-bulb temperature, a critical measure of heat stress, climbed to 29.57°C at 5:30 PM. Experts warn that readings above 32°C can dangerously hinder the human body’s ability to cool itself, while 35°C is seen as a threshold for survival.

⚠️ IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Saturday

While no major weather alerts are in place for the week, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for Saturday, signaling potential localised weather activity. Delhi residents can expect continued light rainfall and occasional thunderstorms, though day temperatures are likely to remain below the seasonal average.

🌧️ Monsoon Fury in Rajasthan

Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, monsoon rains wreaked havoc earlier this week. On Wednesday, heavy downpours led to flooding and structural damage in several parts of the state:

• A section of the historic Ajmer Dargah’s ceiling collapsed, although no injuries were reported thanks to timely evacuation.
• In Kota, rainwater inundated residential areas and public buildings. Authorities were forced to open eight gates of the Kota barrage in response to rising water levels.
• Heavy to moderate rains were recorded in Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar, and Baran from Tuesday noon to late Wednesday.

☔ Rainfall Outlook: Central and Northern India on High Alert

Looking ahead, the IMD has forecast above-normal rainfall for July in central India, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. This raises concerns over potential localised flooding, as July typically contributes over one-third of India’s total monsoon rainfall.