Delhi experiences hottest July day in two years as heat and humidity soar

Delhi recorded its highest July maximum temperature in nearly two years, reaching 39.2 °C, with a minimum of 30.2 °C—both several degrees above normal. The combination of high heat and humidity pushed the heat‑index, or real‑feel temperature, to about 48 °C, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue a yellow alert for hot and humid conditions.

Meteorologists cited a lack of recent rainfall and dry westerly winds, along with humid south‑westerly flows from the Arabian Sea, as the main drivers of the extreme temperatures. While isolated to light rain and strong winds are forecast for the coming days, experts warned that the moisture content of the winds is being depleted before reaching the capital, limiting precipitation.

The city’s air‑quality index stood at 176 (moderate) during the peak heat. Authorities expect temperatures to remain near 39‑40 °C through the weekend before a modest cooling expected with the anticipated rains.