New Delhi, June 2025:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of intense heatwave conditions across Delhi and parts of northwest India in the coming days, with maximum temperatures expected to soar up to 44°C by Tuesday. The department, however, has also indicated that the southwest monsoon, which has been stalled for over a week, is likely to resume its advance by mid-June, bringing much-needed relief.
On Saturday, Delhi’s Safdarjung observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 39.8°C, which is normal for this time of year. However, temperatures are predicted to rise steadily over the next five days. According to IMD forecasts, Delhi could reach 42°C on Sunday, with further increases expected early next week, potentially marking the hottest period of the season so far.
Monsoon Stalled Since June 29
The IMD confirmed that the monsoon’s northward progression stalled around June 29 due to dry air intrusions and weakened monsoon flows. The delay is part of a growing trend of monsoon hiatuses, said M. Rajeevan, former secretary at the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
“Monsoon conditions are expected to remain weak until at least June 12, but revival is likely between June 12 and 18,” he said. The southwest monsoon typically reaches Delhi around June 27, and the entire country by July 8.
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Severe Heat in Delhi and Beyond
On Saturday, Delhi’s Ayanagar weather station reported the highest temperature at 41.2°C, followed by Palam at 40.7°C. While no official heatwave alert has been issued for the capital yet, IMD scientists warn that parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Rajasthan are likely to experience heatwave conditions from June 9 onwards.
Naresh Kumar, an IMD scientist, stated that temperatures in Delhi-NCR may touch 43–44°C by early next week. “Heatwave conditions are likely in west Rajasthan from June 9 and could extend to other northwestern states on June 10,” he added.
According to IMD criteria, a heatwave occurs when temperatures in the plains exceed 40°C and are at least 4.5°C above normal. A severe heatwave is classified when this difference exceeds 6.5°C or when temperatures cross 45°C.
Dry Winds and No Rain Expected in Delhi Until June 12
Meteorologists from private weather agencies also pointed to the absence of weather systems that could bring relief. Mahesh Palawat, Vice President of Skymet Weather, said both a western disturbance and a cyclonic circulation in the region have weakened.
“Dry northwesterly winds are dominating, and no rainfall is expected in Delhi-NCR until at least June 12. Humidity will increase, but so will the temperature,” he noted.
Rainfall to Resume in Southern, Northeastern States
The IMD has forecast an increase in rainfall activity over southern India and the northeast starting June 10, with isolated heavy showers likely in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The monsoon is expected to become active again across the southern peninsula within the week.
Heatwave conditions are forecast to prevail in:
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West Rajasthan: June 8–10
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Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh: June 9–11
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East Uttar Pradesh, North Madhya Pradesh: June 9–10
Public Advisory
Authorities advise residents in affected regions to take necessary precautions during this period, including avoiding outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, staying hydrated, and monitoring official IMD alerts.
As the heatwave intensifies across northern India, all eyes remain on the upcoming revival of the southwest monsoon, expected to bring widespread rainfall and much-needed relief to the region starting next week.