Rajasthan on Red Alert for Heatwave; Delhi Braces for 45°C, Relief Likely from June 12

Extreme heatwave conditions continue to scorch parts of northwest and eastern India, with temperatures climbing dangerously high and bringing little relief to residents.

Delhi experienced its hottest day of the season on Tuesday, with the mercury touching 43.8°C — 3.6 degrees above the seasonal average. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the capital until Wednesday, warning that the oppressive heat is expected to persist. Daytime temperatures could reach around 45°C, and even nighttime lows will stay uncomfortably warm at about 29°C. However, there may be some relief from June 12 onward, with forecasts predicting light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph in parts of the city.

In Rajasthan, the heatwave is even more intense. Ganganagar has been sweltering under temperatures above 47°C for two straight days. A red alert has been issued for western Rajasthan through June 11 and 12, with an orange alert in place for June 13. Eastern Rajasthan is under a yellow alert for the same day. The IMD predicts that thunderstorm activity may bring some respite between June 15 and 16, and a slight dip in temperatures is expected in eastern parts of the state by June 18–20.

Punjab is also feeling the heat. In Ludhiana, the temperature hit 44°C on Monday, prompting a yellow alert until Thursday. The IMD forecasts that the maximum temperature will remain above 40°C through June 16. Though there's no significant change in the weather expected immediately, light rain or thunderstorms at isolated locations could help ease conditions somewhat.

Even the hill states are not spared. In Himachal Pradesh, Una recorded a scorching 44.2°C on Tuesday — the highest in the state. Other areas like Shimla and Manali are also reporting temperatures well above normal. The weather is expected to stay dry through June 12, with a possibility of light rain on June 13 and 14.

Meteorologists say the intense heat is partly due to the weakening of recent western disturbances, which has left behind residual moisture and added to the discomfort. With the monsoon still some days away from reaching northwest India, the heatwave is likely to linger a little longer.