The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi on Monday, warning of rising temperatures and heatwave conditions over the next two days. A red alert has also been issued for Gujarat, particularly for the Saurashtra and Kutch regions, which are already reeling under extreme heat. An orange alert will be in place for Gujarat from April 8 to 10.
Meanwhile, air quality in the national capital deteriorated to the ‘poor’ category.
According to the IMD, Kandla in Gujarat recorded the highest temperature in the country on Sunday at 44°C. The department has predicted that heatwave conditions will persist in 21 cities across states including Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Odisha. Coastal areas of Gujarat and the Konkan-Goa region are also expected to experience hot and humid weather from April 7 to 9.
In Rajasthan, Barmer recorded a scorching 45.6°C on Sunday — the highest ever for the first week of April, and 6.8°C above the normal temperature for this time of year. IMD has issued an orange alert for Rajasthan on April 7 and 8, followed by a yellow alert for April 9 and 10. Severe heatwave conditions are expected in isolated pockets between April 7 and 9.
Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Chandigarh are also likely to witness heatwave conditions. IMD forecasts heatwaves in isolated parts of Himachal on April 7, and across Haryana, Chandigarh, and Punjab from April 7 to 10. Delhi is expected to face similar conditions on April 7 and 8, and western Uttar Pradesh from April 7 to 9. Central India, especially Madhya Pradesh, is predicted to see intensified heat from April 8 to 10.
Meanwhile, air quality in the national capital continues to remain concerning. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at 9 a.m., the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in various parts of Delhi were: Anand Vihar (292), Chandni Chowk (198), ITO (209), Najafgarh (165), Okhla Phase II (293), RK Puram (221), Patparganj (252), and Wazirpur (260).
The IMD has advised people, especially the elderly and those with health conditions, to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours and remain hydrated.
(With ANI inputs)
