Severe heatwave grips northern India: Relief likely by mid-June

As of June 9, northern India continues to reel under a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 45°C in many parts of the region. Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are among the worst-affected. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a "yellow" alert, warning residents to stay cautious as temperatures remain 4–6°C above normal.

With the mercury touching dangerously high levels, heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion have become serious concerns, especially for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Fortunately, the IMD forecasts relief around June 13–14, when thunderstorms and light to moderate rainfall are expected to sweep across northern states.

What’s causing the heatwave?

This intense heatwave is not a one-off anomaly. It is the result of several meteorological and environmental factors working together:

1. High-pressure systems

A dominant high-pressure zone over northern India has trapped hot air close to the ground. This inhibits the movement of cooler air masses, leading to sustained periods of extreme heat.

2. Dry conditions

Low humidity levels, especially in arid regions like Rajasthan and Haryana, mean there's little atmospheric moisture to regulate temperatures. Dry air heats up faster, contributing to the intense heat.

3. Seasonal patterns

Heatwaves are a known feature of late spring and early summer in India. During May and June, the subcontinent experiences strong solar radiation. With monsoon winds yet to arrive in the north, this seasonal window often sees a spike in extreme temperatures.

4. Urban heat island effect

Cities like Delhi and Chandigarh are experiencing even more pronounced heating due to concrete, glass, and asphalt structures that trap and re-radiate heat. In Delhi-NCR, daily maximums of 41–43°C are expected, up from the usual 36–38°C range.

Regional impact and forecasts

The IMD has released a detailed heatwave advisory for key regions:

The hottest location reported so far is Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan, which clocked a staggering 47°C on June 9. In many urban areas, nights are offering little respite, with minimum temperatures hovering around 29°C.

Health risks and safety precautions

The "yellow" alert by the IMD indicates a moderate threat, urging people to be careful, especially during the afternoon hours. Prolonged exposure to such high temperatures can lead to:

• Heatstroke
• Dehydration
• Fatigue
• Exacerbation of cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses

Who is most at risk?

• The elderly
• Infants and young children
• Outdoor workers (construction, agriculture, traffic management)
• People with chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or respiratory disorders

Recommended precautions:

• Stay indoors between 11 AM and 4 PM if possible
• Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty
• Use fans, coolers, or air conditioning
• Take cool showers or use wet towels to regulate body temperature
• Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothing
• Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours

Hospitals and emergency services in Delhi, Jaipur, and Chandigarh have reported a rise in heat-related emergency calls. Authorities are advising extra vigilance in rural areas with limited access to cooling infrastructure.

What lies ahead: Rain and relief

The heatwave is likely to persist across most of northern India until June 11. However, the weather is expected to take a turn around June 13–14. The IMD predicts:

• Light to moderate rain
• Thunderstorms
• Gusty winds

These conditions are likely to affect Delhi-NCR, western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab. In Uttarakhand, isolated heavy rainfall may begin as early as June 12.

This shift is attributed to the gradual advancement of the southwest monsoon, which is already active in southern India and expected to move northward in the coming week.

Larger implications and broader weather patterns

The current heatwave in northern India forms part of a broader trend of increasingly frequent and intense heat events across the subcontinent. Climate scientists warn that:

• Urbanisation is worsening heatwave intensity
• Delayed or erratic monsoon patterns are creating longer pre-monsoon heat periods
• Rural areas are also becoming increasingly vulnerable due to deforestation and changing land use

These weather patterns, while not unusual for this time of year, are becoming more prolonged and erratic due to long-term shifts in climate behaviour. The urban heat island effect, in particular, underscores the need for more green spaces, better city planning, and heat-resilient infrastructure.

As northern India continues to experience scorching conditions, the next few days remain critical for public health and safety. The IMD’s forecast of thunderstorms and rainfall around mid-June offers a silver lining, but until then, precaution is paramount.

With proper awareness, hydration, and shelter, the impact of the current heatwave can be mitigated. However, long-term solutions—like improved urban planning, early warning systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure—are essential to reduce the risks of future heat events.