New Delhi, June 11, 2025 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Delhi and neighboring states as temperatures cross 45°C, triggering severe heatwave conditions. The IMD warns that these extreme weather conditions can cause serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and people working outdoors. Relief, however, may come after three days, when rain and thunderstorms are expected to hit the region.
A red alert is the highest-level weather warning issued by the IMD. It signifies a dangerous situation, urging the public to stay indoors, limit outdoor activity, and remain well-hydrated. In parts of Delhi, like Najafgarh and Mungeshpur, temperatures have touched 46.2°C and 45.8°C, respectively—the highest of the season so far.
According to the IMD forecast, Delhi NCR will continue to experience scorching heat, with maximum temperatures ranging between 44°C and 46°C over the next 72 hours. Hot, dry winds (loo) will worsen the heat during the daytime. Relief is expected around June 14, when a western disturbance may bring scattered rainfall, thunderstorms, and dust storms, leading to a drop in temperature by 3-5°C.
The heatwave is not just limited to Delhi. Other North Indian states including Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are also on alert. These regions are experiencing intense heat, and red and orange alerts have been issued based on regional temperature variations.
In Punjab, cities like Bathinda, Patiala, and Amritsar have recorded temperatures above 44°C. The IMD has issued a red alert for southern Punjab, where people are being advised to avoid the sun, especially between 12 PM and 4 PM. Rainfall and storm activity are likely to begin around the evening of June 14.
In Haryana, districts such as Hisar and Rohtak are reeling under temperatures above 45°C. The heatwave conditions are expected to persist for the next few days, and citizens are being warned of possible heat-related illnesses. The IMD has predicted rain showers in Haryana also by June 14 or 15.
Rajasthan remains one of the worst-hit states, especially in Churu, Sri Ganganagar, and Bikaner, where the mercury has surged past 47°C. These desert regions are highly vulnerable, and the state government is advising people to avoid travel. Light rainfall and dust storms are forecasted between June 14 and 15, which could help in easing the intense heat.
The ongoing heatwave poses a serious public health threat. The IMD and health experts have shared several preventive tips to stay safe: people should stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, drink plenty of water, coconut water, or ORS, and wear light cotton clothes. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks is also advised. Children, senior citizens, and those with existing health conditions should be closely monitored.
The impact of the heatwave on Delhi NCR’s daily life is significant. Several schools and colleges have shifted to half-day schedules or temporarily suspended classes. Construction work and other outdoor labor activities are being restricted. The use of Delhi Metro and other forms of public transport has increased, as people avoid walking or riding bikes in the sun. Hospitals in the capital are reporting a rise in heatstroke, dehydration, and fatigue cases, with many needing urgent medical attention.
To understand the situation better, it’s important to know what defines a heatwave. According to the IMD, a heatwave occurs when the maximum temperature is 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal or reaches 45°C or more. A severe heatwave is declared when the temperature is more than 6.5°C above normal or crosses 47°C. In hill stations, a temperature above 37°C can also be declared a heatwave.
Delhi’s weather records are already indicating a particularly harsh summer. May 2025 was reported as the second hottest May in a decade. The first ten days of June have seen zero rainfall, extremely low humidity, and consistently high temperatures between 43°C and 45°C.
Now, the big question on everyone’s mind is: When will the rain come? The IMD says a western disturbance is likely to move across northwest India by June 14, which will bring light to moderate showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. This system is expected to bring some relief, although only temporarily, as the monsoon is not expected to fully arrive until late June.
Looking ahead, the monsoon is likely to hit Kerala around June 15, and gradually move toward North India by the last week of June. Until the full arrival of the monsoon, people can expect scattered showers or pre-monsoon activity that may offer short-term relief from the heat.
While Delhi and surrounding states continue to suffer under this severe heatwave, the good news is that rain is expected soon. Until then, everyone is urged to follow precautions, avoid the sun, and stay hydrated and alert. The IMD will continue to share updates as the weather conditions change.
