Delhi-NCR Reels Under Severe Heatwave, IMD Issues Red Alert
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Temperatures Soar to 36°C by 10 AM; Mercury May Touch 45°C Today
New Delhi, June 12 (TheTrendingPeople.): Delhi-NCR continues to face the brunt of a punishing heatwave, with temperatures touching 36°C by 10 AM on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for the national capital and surrounding areas, warning that maximum temperatures may range between 43°C and 45°C during the day.
The Red Alert urges citizens to take extreme precautions as the capital endures one of the season’s harshest spells. A gradual decline in temperature is expected from Friday, June 13, according to the IMD.
What Does a Red Alert Mean?
A ‘Red Alert’ is the highest warning issued by the IMD, signaling "severe heatwave conditions" that can significantly affect health and normal life. The advisory recommends:
- Avoiding direct sun exposure, especially between 12 PM to 4 PM
- Staying hydrated by drinking water frequently
- Wearing loose, light-colored clothing
- Covering the head and face when outdoors
Public Speaks: “It’s Getting Unbearable”
Residents across the capital shared their experiences of coping with the scorching heat:
“It’s becoming impossible to step out. We’re drinking water frequently, covering our faces, and avoiding going outside unless absolutely necessary,” said a local resident.
Another working professional said:
“We have to go to the office daily, and this heatwave makes it very difficult. Even in the early morning, it’s too hot to leave home comfortably.”
In Noida, one resident stressed the importance of community care:
“Besides keeping ourselves hydrated, we should keep water for passersby, birds, and stray animals to help them survive this heat.”
Tourists Brave the Heat at Delhi’s Monuments
Despite the sweltering temperatures, some tourists were seen visiting landmarks like Qutub Minar.
“It’s extremely hot. Even though there’s greenery around, the heat is unbearable,” said a visitor from Karnataka.
A tourist from Bihar explained their strategy:
“Most people avoid sightseeing in such summers. We came early in the morning to beat the heat. Now we’re heading back because it’s getting too hot to stay outside.”
Another visitor added:
“Lemon juice is very common here. There’s not much coconut water available, but lemon drinks help a lot in staying cool.”
What Experts Advise:
Health authorities continue to warn residents of heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, and exhaustion. The IMD has suggested that vulnerable populations—children, senior citizens, and those with pre-existing conditions—should stay indoors as much as possible.
Warning Signs of Heat-Related Illness:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Excessive sweating or dry skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fast pulse or shallow breathing
In such cases, immediate medical attention is advised.
Do’s and Don’ts During a Heatwave:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Drink water regularly | Avoid alcohol and caffeine |
| Stay in the shade | Avoid direct exposure to sun |
| Wear light, loose clothing | Don’t wear dark or tight clothing |
| Use head covering like cap/scarf | Avoid going out during peak heat hours |
Is Relief in Sight?
According to the IMD, a drop in temperatures may begin from Friday, June 13, but until then, the capital region is expected to remain under extreme heat conditions.
Weather officials and health experts continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to take all necessary precautions to stay safe.