Delhi Weather: Record February Heat Signals How Next 3-4 Months Will Be
Delhi hit a record 34.1°C on February 26, signaling a tough summer ahead. The capital faces a growing risk of rising temperatures and potential heatwaves over the next four months
Delhi’s record-breaking heat on February 26 with temperatures soaring to 34.1 degrees Celsius, 8 degrees above the seasonal average temperature, gives an indication of how the next four months of summer will be.
According to data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi’s temperature has remained above 32 degrees Celsius for the past 10 days, with 26 February recording the highest temperature so far this year.
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Previously, the highest temperature recorded in 2023 was 33.6 degrees Celsius on 21 February. However, this was surpassed on 26 February when Safdarjung recorded a temperature of 0.5 degrees Celsius higher. This indicates that Delhi residents may face challenging temperatures in the coming months.
The minimum temperature in Delhi was 15.4 degrees Celsius, 2.9 degrees above normal. Humidity levels ranged from 59 to 86 per cent throughout the day. Analysis of data from 2009 onwards reveals only four instances where the temperature has exceeded 32 degrees Celsius.
Whenever this rise in temperature has been observed, the scorching heat has exacerbated living conditions for Delhiites in those years. For instance, in 2023, when the temperature surpassed 33 degrees Celsius in February, the maximum temperature in Delhi reached 42.9°C. This peak temperature was recorded in May, a period when heatwave-like conditions also affected certain areas of the city.
What Will Be The Effect
Unseasonably high temperatures in February are an indicator of global warming and climate change, with implications for air quality. Elevated temperatures contribute to an increase in pollution-causing particles in the atmosphere, leading to a higher Air Quality Index and, consequently, a rapid rise in pollution levels.
The increasing temperature poses a significant threat to Delhi’s water security. Lacking its own water sources, Delhi relies heavily on neighbouring states for its water supply. As temperatures rise, these external sources become increasingly strained, potentially exacerbating the water crisis faced by Delhi’s residents.
Cold weather is favourable for crops such as wheat, mustard, and gram. If temperatures remain high in February, wheat crops may ripen early, potentially reducing yield. Fruit and vegetable yields may also be affected, leading to increased prices.
Intense heat can cause heat stress and dehydration. The additional pressure on the body from abnormal heat can exacerbate issues such as fatigue, dizziness, and dehydration. Moreover, it may contribute to allergies and respiratory problems.
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