Overview

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert as Delhi experiences intense heatwave conditions, with maximum temperatures around 42°C.
• High relative humidity, reaching up to 74%, has driven the heat index—or 'real feel' temperature—to an oppressive 48.5°C.
• Delhi's peak power demand surged to 7,265 MW, the highest for mid-May in four years, as residents rely heavily on air conditioning.
• Intermittent light rain, thunderstorms, and dust storms are forecast throughout the week, providing temporary relief from the heat.
• Air quality in Delhi has deteriorated to the 'poor' category due to dust storms and ozone, with a 24-hour average AQI of 201 reported on May 19.