Delhi sees relief from sweltering heat as rain brings temporary respite; IMD warns of heatwave return next week

Delhi experienced a much-needed reprieve from the blistering heat on Friday as several parts of the city received light to moderate rainfall accompanied by a cool breeze. The rainfall, which was the highest recorded in the city since March 3, brought temporary relief from the scorching temperatures.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Safdarjung, the city's base station, recorded 3.6mm of rainfall by 5.30pm. However, the IMD predicts that rain is unlikely for the next four days, leading to a rising trend in day temperatures and the return of heatwave conditions on Monday and Tuesday.

Impact of Rainfall on Temperatures

Despite the rainfall, the maximum temperature at Safdarjung rose to 40.4 degrees Celsius, which is two degrees above normal. This marked the 39th consecutive day of the day temperature crossing 40 degrees Celsius. The heat index, or feel-like temperature, soared to 53 degrees Celsius due to increased humidity post-rain.

A Met official commented, "Rain along with cold strong winds provided comfort from the heatwave. However, as the impact of the western disturbance ebbs, the mercury will start rising."

Rainfall Distribution and Deficit

Parts of Delhi recorded varying amounts of rainfall, with Pitampura logging the highest at 33.5mm, followed by Rajghat at 32mm. Other areas such as Pusa, Ridge, Lodhi Road, Jafarpur, Palam, and Ayanagar also received varying amounts of rainfall.

Delhi has been predominantly rain-deficient so far this year, with months like January and May experiencing significant deficits. January saw 'trace' rainfall against a normal of 19.1mm, making it 100% rain-deficient. Similarly, May recorded only 0.4mm of rainfall, leading to a deficit of 99%.

IMD Forecast and Alerts

IMD has issued a 'yellow' alert for June 24 and 25 for heatwaves at isolated places. The maximum temperature is likely to rise to 42 and 43 degrees Celsius during the weekend and further to 44 degrees Celsius on Monday and Tuesday, leading to heatwave conditions.

Weather Forecast Across India

West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh: These regions are likely to experience heavy rainfall over the next four days. Specifically, West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to see significant rainfall on June 23 and 24, while Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura may experience heavy rainfall on June 22.

Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Andaman & Nicobar Islands: The IMD's weather report dated June 21 indicates that isolated heavy rainfall is very likely over Bihar during 21st-25th, Odisha on 21st & 22nd, Jharkhand on 24th & 25th, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands during 22nd-25th June. Isolated very heavy rainfall is likely over Odisha on 21st and over Bihar on 24th & 25th today.

Konkan & Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Gujarat, Marathwada, and southeast Rajasthan: The weather bulletin predicts isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall over Konkan & Goa and ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra during 21st-25th, with isolated heavy rainfall over Gujarat region on 21st & 23rd and Marathwada on 23rd June. Southeast Rajasthan is also expected to experience isolated heavy rainfall on 21st, 24th & 25th June 2024.

Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana: Heavy rains are expected to lash the regions of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu until June 25, with Telangana likely to experience heavy rainfall on June 22nd.

Extremely High-Intensity Showers: IMD has forecasted extremely high-intensity showers for Karnataka on June 22 and 23, for Goa on June 22 and 24, and for Kerala and Karnataka on June 23.

As Delhi prepares for the return of heatwave conditions next week, residents are advised to stay updated with the weather forecast and take necessary precautions. The intermittent rainfall has provided some relief, but with rising temperatures, it is essential to stay informed and take care to avoid heat-related illnesses.

(With inputs from TOI)