Scorching Summer: Delhi's Record Heat Wave in 2024

Delhi experienced a significant rise in summer heat during 2024, with its mean maximum temperature increasing by over 4 degrees Celsius between April and May, compared to just 1.5 degrees in 2023. Heat intensified rapidly in April, with both daytime and night-time temperatures rising significantly, posing increased heat stress for residents.

Delhi witnessed an unusually rapid heat wave in 2024, with the mean maximum temperature surging by over 4 degrees Celsius between April and May, as per the Statistical Handbook, Delhi 2025.

Further analysis reveals that March temperatures were marginally cooler than in 2023, but a dramatic rise in temperatures began in April, reaching 37.0 degrees Celsius, compared to 35.3 in 2023. Night temperatures also climbed, suggesting diminishing nightly cool-offs pre-summer.

By May, temperatures soared to 41.3 degrees Celsius, with nights also growing hotter. Manish Palawat of Skymet highlighted that global warming contributes to such extreme conditions, suggesting the likelihood of persisting or worsening heat trends.