New Delhi — Delhi and Punjab remain under a red alert as an unrelenting heatwave scorches northwest India, with temperatures in the national capital soaring to a blistering 45°C in some parts. Meanwhile, southern India is preparing for widespread rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy showers in Telangana and Karnataka.
🔥 Delhi Scorches with 51.9°C Heat Index
Delhi recorded a heat index of 51.9°C on Wednesday — the combined effect of high temperature and humidity — marking one of the most intense days of the season. According to IMD data:
- Ayanagar: 45.0°C
- Palam: 44.5°C
- Ridge: 43.6°C
- Pitampura: 43.5°C
- Lodi Road: 43.4°C
- Safdarjung: 43.3°C
- Mayur Vihar: 40.9°C
Peak power demand also reached a record high of 8,231 MW at 10:55 pm, according to the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC).
“The severe heat is expected to persist till Thursday. A western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the night of June 13, which may bring light rain and thunderstorms in Delhi,” said Naresh Kumar, senior IMD scientist, to PTI.
A gradual temperature decline is expected from June 14, potentially bringing relief to Delhi-NCR residents.
🌡️ Punjab Also on Red Alert
With temperatures significantly above normal and dry weather persisting, Punjab is also under red alert for June 12 and 13. The IMD warned:
“Heat wave to severe heat wave conditions are likely to continue over northwest India, including the western Himalayan region, till June 13 and reduce thereafter.”
🌧️ Monsoon Brings Relief to the South
In stark contrast to the north, southern India is witnessing the return of the monsoon, bringing heavy rains across several regions.
📍 Telangana
A heavy rainfall alert has been issued for 10 districts on June 12:
- Adilabad
- Kumaram Bheem Asifabad
- Jagtial
- Vikarabad
- Sangareddy
- Mahabubnagar
- Nagarkurnool
- Wanaparthy
- Narayanpet
- Jogulamba Gadwal
Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds are also expected in isolated areas across the state.
📍 Karnataka
The southwest monsoon has regained strength, and widespread rainfall is forecast through June 17:
- Coastal & North Interior Karnataka: Continued heavy rainfall
- South Interior Karnataka: “Fairly widespread” showers until June 14, intensifying thereafter
For the latest weather advisories and updates, citizens are advised to follow IMD alerts and take necessary precautions during extreme conditions.