India is experiencing one of its most intense heatwaves ever, with temperatures in Delhi reaching unprecedented highs. On Wednesday, the Mungeshpur region on the outskirts of the national capital recorded a staggering 52.9 degrees Celsius, causing widespread alarm. While the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is still evaluating this reading for potential sensor issues, if confirmed, it would be the highest temperature ever recorded in the country. IMD Director General M Mohapatra noted that although 14 out of 20 monitoring stations in Delhi recorded a slight temperature drop on Wednesday, the city’s average temperature remained between 45C to 50C.
The extreme heatwave has significantly impacted daily life and the ongoing national election, with daytime temperatures nearing 50C across Delhi and other parts of northern India this week.
On Tuesday, Safdarjung, the city’s main weather station, recorded a temperature of 45.8C. Meanwhile, Mungeshpur and Narela reported temperatures of 49.9C, and the regions of Najafgarh, Pitampura, and Pusa sizzled at around 49.8C. As the heatwave continues, concerns grow over public health and the broader implications for the country.
