Delhi Heat Index Hits 51.3 Degrees Celsius Amid High Humidity
Delhi experienced an intense heatwave recently as the actual maximum temperature reached 41.3 degrees Celsius, which is 4.1 degrees Celsius above the normal level for this time of the year. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the "real feel" or heat index in the capital soared to 51.3 degrees Celsius due to exceptionally high humidity levels.
The weather department reported that the high moisture content has significantly increased heat stress for residents. The IMD recorded a wet-bulb temperature of 29.77 degrees Celsius. This meteorological measurement indicates the combined effect of heat and humidity on the human body.
When humidity levels are high, sweat cannot evaporate easily from the skin, making it much harder for the body to cool itself down. Throughout the day, humidity levels in Delhi ranged from 35 percent to 63 percent, causing the outdoor conditions to feel far hotter than the actual air temperature.
Weather experts explained that southwesterly winds blowing from the Arabian Sea are currently bringing moisture into northwestern India, causing the muggy conditions. Typically, Delhi experiences dry summer heat, but the influx of moisture has altered the weather.
Furthermore, the monsoon has not yet arrived in Delhi. While the monsoon normally brings rainfall from the Bay of Bengal to cool the region, the capital is currently receiving high humidity without any rain.
The IMD stated that the humid, hot, and sticky conditions are expected to persist over the next few days. However, some relief is anticipated on June 29, when rain and thunderstorms are predicted to return to the city. Temperatures on June 29 are forecast to hover between 29 degrees Celsius and 39 degrees Celsius.
On June 30, the weather is expected to remain similar, with a maximum temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 28 degrees Celsius. The IMD expects the monsoon to officially reach Delhi after July 4.
