IMD predicts hotter, drier days in Delhi

Delhi is expected to experience hotter days in the coming days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD forecasts clear skies and dry weather for the next few days, although isolated areas may experience heatwave conditions.

On Friday, the Safdarjung Observatory, Delhi’s primary weather station, recorded a minimum temperature of 27.3 degrees Celsius, which is normal for this time of the year. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 41 degrees Celsius.

During the daytime, strong surface winds are anticipated, while very light rainfall is possible at night. The IMD previously predicted normal to below normal monsoon activity in northwest India, indicating the likelihood of drier and hotter days ahead.

In its June forecast, the IMD stated that most parts of the country can expect normal to above-normal maximum temperatures, except for the extreme north and certain areas of the southern peninsular region.

According to the IMD’s extended range model guidance, improved rainfall activity is expected in northwest India during the fourth week of June and the first week of July. The monsoon arrived on the Indian mainland on Thursday, with the IMD declaring its onset over Kerala, albeit a week later than the usual date of June 1.

While the IMD initially predicted a four-day delay in the monsoon onset over Kerala, it was further delayed due to a cyclone in the Arabian Sea. It’s worth noting that a delay in the monsoon onset over Kerala does not necessarily indicate a delay in the monsoon reaching northwest India. However, it generally corresponds to a delay in onset in the southern states and Mumbai.

The rain-bearing system typically reaches Delhi by June 27. (With inputs from PTI)