Delhi Heatwave Continues Above 40°C With New Government Rules

Delhi is experiencing temperatures over 40°C, much like last year's heatwave in April 2025. Officials are taking new steps to protect people.
By Newsroom | Weather, Delhi |

PERSISTENT HEAT THREATENS NORTHWEST AND CENTRAL INDIA

Delhi and surrounding regions are grappling with relentless heat, with temperatures poised to remain above 40°C in the coming days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stark warning, highlighting the persistent heatwave conditions across parts of northwest and central India.

The Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has initiated measures to mitigate the impact of the sweltering weather. These include mandatory rest for workers between 1 PM and 4 PM, and ensuring the availability of water and shade, with a particular focus on providing cool drinking water for schoolchildren. Departments responsible for fire, power, and water have been instructed to maintain uninterrupted supply. Residents are advised to avoid concrete surfaces, water bodies, and electrical conductors during this period.

No respite from heat, Delhi-NCR bakes; IMD issues warning as temperature threatens to stay above 40°C - 1

PRECARIOUS FORECASTS AND POTENTIAL RELIEF

While the heat shows no immediate sign of abating, there's a flicker of possibility for respite. The IMD has forecast the chance of thunderstorms and gusty winds bringing some relief to Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. However, these are currently conditional projections.

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Further compounding the meteorological outlook, the IMD had previously issued a 'yellow alert' for a heatwave in Delhi. Residents are looking towards June for the usual monsoon rains, a period when the capital typically experiences rainfall.

No respite from heat, Delhi-NCR bakes; IMD issues warning as temperature threatens to stay above 40°C - 2

HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND IMPERFECT DATA

Past weather reports indicate similar concerns. In late April of 2025, a severe heatwave had already gripped northwest India, pushing temperatures in Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh past the 40°C mark. At that time, the IMD had issued warnings for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across various regions for the subsequent seven days.

Even as recent reports from April 2025 suggested light rain and thunderstorms in Delhi-NCR, offering a temporary reprieve, the underlying conditions seem to be reasserting themselves. Official advisories, such as those issued on April 27, 2025, noted maximum temperatures reaching 41.3°C, significantly above the seasonal average, with no immediate prospect of substantial change. The air quality in Delhi-NCR has also fluctuated, at times falling into the 'poor' category.

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The IMD's forecasts, while serving as official pronouncements, are subject to the inherent variability of weather patterns, leaving a degree of uncertainty regarding the timing and extent of any potential relief from the enduring heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Delhi so hot right now and what are the new rules?
Delhi is experiencing a heatwave with temperatures above 40°C. Starting today, April 28, 2026, the Delhi government has made it mandatory for workers to rest between 1 PM and 4 PM and ensured water and shade are available, especially for schoolchildren.
Q: When might the heatwave end in Delhi?
While the heat is expected to continue, there is a chance of thunderstorms and gusty winds bringing some relief to Delhi and nearby areas. However, this is not certain.
Q: What did the government do to help people during the heatwave?
The Delhi government has ordered mandatory rest for workers from 1 PM to 4 PM. They are also making sure there is enough water and shade, with special care for schoolchildren. Fire, power, and water departments must keep supplies running.
Q: What do past weather reports say about Delhi's heat?
In April 2025, Delhi-NCR also faced a severe heatwave with temperatures over 40°C. Last year, warnings were issued for thunderstorms, and while some rain brought temporary relief, the high temperatures are returning.
Q: Is there any chance of rain soon in Delhi?
There is a possibility of thunderstorms and gusty winds bringing some relief, but it is not guaranteed. Residents are hoping for the usual monsoon rains which typically start in June.
Q: What warnings have been issued for Delhi's weather?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for a heatwave in Delhi and warned of persistent heatwave conditions across northwest and central India. Residents are advised to avoid hot surfaces and electrical conductors.