Residents of the national capital had one of the most miserable days of the monsoon season as Delhi had the hottest July day in two years. Although the official record high temperature was 39.2°C, humidity levels were so high that the real-feel temperature reached nearly 48°C, making outdoor conditions extremely oppressive.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the day’s maximum temperature was around 4°C above the seasonal average, which is the highest July temperature recorded in the city since July 30, 2024, when the mercury reached 39.3°C.
High Humidity Makes Heat More Intense
Although the actual air temperature remained below 40°C, the humidity levels in the atmosphere significantly increased discomfort. The heat and humidity combined to drive the heat index, or “feels-like” temperature, to almost 48°C, making it difficult for people to remain outdoors for long periods.
Hence, weather experts said, high humidity can reduce how the body can cool itself because sweat will reduce the body's ability to cool itself by sweating, and so the heat feels much more severe than the actual temperature.
No Rain Adds to Discomfort
The lack of rain only intensified the weather in the city. Monsoon showers usually help moderate temperatures in July, but dry conditions gave the heat a chance to build up throughout the day.
Many parts of Delhi reported hot and humid weather from morning to late evening, with residents complaining of sticky conditions and little relief even after sunset.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert
As we are in the midst of these weather conditions, the India Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for Delhi, advising residents to be wary of the hot weather during the hottest hours of the day.
The weather department urged people to:
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
- Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothing.
- Take extra care of children, senior citizens, and individuals with existing health conditions.
Relief Expected from Saturday
The IMD has forecast a gradual change in weather beginning Saturday, with the possibility of:
- Light to moderate rainfall.
- Cloudy skies.
- Strong surface winds.
- A slight drop in daytime temperatures.
Such conditions would likely provide much-needed relief from the extreme heat and humidity that have enveloped the capital over the past few days.
Health Experts Urge Caution
Doctors have advised residents to stay alert for signs of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion.
People working outdoors, including construction workers, traffic staff, delivery staff, and street vendors, have been advised to take frequent breaks and stay hydrated.
Monsoon Yet to Bring Full Relief
Even in the middle of the monsoon season, Delhi has still seen varying weather patterns with intermittent showers and heat. Meteorologists say such situations are not unusual in monsoon periods when monsoon activity weakens, allowing temperatures and humidity to rise simultaneously.
With rain in the forecast over the weekend, residents are waiting for the capital to get a long-term solution for a sustained respite from the heat.
