New Delhi: 

While the chance of rain might suggest some relief, it is unlikely to bring a significant drop in temperatures. The intense heat is expected to continue unabated through the day, offering only limited comfort to those struggling in the sweltering conditions. Meanwhile, morning began with a thick veil of dust settling over the city, sharply reducing visibility, particularly around Palam airport. The dust storm also dealt a blow to air quality, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 249, placing it firmly in the ‘poor’ category.

After witnessing a dust storm yesterday, and a massive dip in air quality, the residents of Delhi are in for an uncomfortably hot Friday, with daytime temperatures expected to hover around 40 degrees Celsius. They are also expected to welcome in very light rain, thunderstorms, or gusty winds by evening. Wind speeds could reach up to 50 kmph during these short-lived weather spells.

The gritty air added yet another layer of discomfort to an already oppressive morning commute for many residents.

IMD’s weekly weather forecast; no heatwave warning for Delhi

Despite the scorching conditions, the IMD has stated that the city is not currently under a heatwave warning. Maximum temperatures across Delhi and its surrounding areas are fluctuating between 40 degrees Celsius and 43 degrees Celsius. Strong surface winds are expected to persist throughout the day, but the absence of any major weather systems over northwest India means widespread rainfall is unlikely for now.

Monsoon expected to arrive earlier than usual in India

In a broader development that could signal longer-term relief, the IMD has announced that the Southwest Monsoon is likely to arrive in Kerala earlier than usual this year. The monsoon is forecast to hit the southern state by May 27, several days ahead of its typical onset date of 1 June. However, the prediction comes with a margin of error of plus or minus four days.

Some respite from heat during weekend

However, there is some optimism in the forecast. The weekend is likely to offer occasional bouts of relief. Saturday is expected to bring partly cloudy skies along with chances of light rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in the morning. The temperature will continue to hover around 41 degrees Celsius, but no heatwave conditions are anticipated.

Sunday is expected to follow a similar pattern, with intermittent clouds, moderate surface winds reaching up to 35 kmph, and a maximum temperature near 40 degrees Celsius.

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