This year, India is experiencing record-breaking temperatures, causing people to suffer in scorching heat and hot winds. On Wednesday, Delhi saw some of the highest temperatures ever recorded. The mercury soared past 50 degrees Celsius in several places, with Mungeshpur reaching a staggering 52.9 degrees Celsius, according to the weather department.
Previously, the highest temperature recorded in Delhi was 49.2 degrees Celsius in 2002. In response, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has initiated an investigation to ensure the accuracy of the sensors in Mungeshpur. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that they are checking the sensor's functionality as 20 monitoring centers in Delhi recorded temperatures, with Mungeshpur showing the highest.
Local weather conditions can sometimes result in higher temperatures, but this unprecedented heat has raised concerns. Earth Sciences Minister Kiren Rijiju mentioned that the record is yet to be officially declared, and senior officials are examining the data.
IMD Regional Director Kuldeep Srivastava explained that hot winds from Rajasthan have affected Delhi’s outskirts, worsening the heatwave. Areas like Mungeshpur, Narela, and Najafgarh have been particularly affected.
IMD has issued a red alert for Delhi, warning that all age groups are at risk of heatstroke. While high summer temperatures are not new to India, climate change is intensifying the severity and frequency of heatwaves.
