Parts of Delhi-NCR have been witnessing intense heatwave conditions over the past few days, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to upgrade its warning for the national capital from a “yellow” alert to an “orange” alert on Wednesday.
Temperatures in Delhi are expected to touch 46 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are expected to continue over the next two days, with heatwave conditions likely to persist thereafter as well.
The weather office has also forecast no significant change in maximum and minimum temperatures during the next seven days, according to the IMD.
Delhi on orange alert for 5 days
The IMD placed Delhi under an orange alert for the next five days on Wednesday, saying that daytime temperatures this week are unlikely to dip below 43 degrees Celsius.
Weather experts attributed the rising temperatures to the absence of active weather systems. Mahesh Palawat, vice president of Skymet Weather, said there are currently no western disturbances or cyclonic circulations affecting the region, while hot and dry winds from western and northwestern areas continue to sweep across Delhi.
What does IMD's orange alert means?
IMD’s orange warning refers to an alert to be prepared for taking action, indicating the possibility of worsening weather conditions that could impact daily life.
The alert indicates a high risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for children, elderly people and those with medical conditions.
Measures suggested by IMD for heatwave
IMD has suggested several measures to mitigate the effects of the heatwave, including avoiding heat exposure, wearing light weight, light coloured, loose, cotton clothes, covering the head, using a cloth, hat or umbrella, drinking sufficient water and keeping fire extinguishers at home and in vehicles.
Delhi’s electricity demand also touched this summer’s highest level amid the soaring heat.
