Intense heat has made life difficult for people in Delhi and many parts of North India. The scorching afternoons, heat waves, and dry winds have everyone eagerly awaiting even a sprinkle of rain.
Weather Forecast: There is some welcome news for the people struggling with the intense heat in North India. Relief from the severe heatwave and temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius is expected in Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a change in weather patterns starting the night of June 13th and has issued an orange alert for the region.
Heatwave's Impact: Temperatures Reach 47 Degrees
This week, the heat in North India broke all records. Temperatures in some parts of Delhi reached 47 degrees Celsius, while areas like Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad also saw temperatures exceeding 45 degrees. The heatwave and hot winds severely impacted people's daily routines. According to the IMD forecast, b winds and rain will begin today in Delhi-NCR and several other states.
Wind speeds could reach 40-50 km per hour, posing a risk of falling trees and weak structures. The department has advised people to exercise caution.
Expected Temperature Drop
- From June 14th (Saturday), the weather will begin to cool. The maximum temperature is expected to drop to around 41 degrees Celsius, and the minimum temperature to around 29 degrees Celsius.
- This drop will be more pronounced on June 15th, with an expected maximum temperature of 40 degrees and a minimum of 28 degrees.
- Intermittent rain from June 16th to 19th: The IMD predicts cloudy skies and light to moderate rain on June 16th and 17th. Temperatures:
- Maximum: 38 degrees Celsius
- Minimum: 27-28 degrees Celsius
- There is a possibility of thunderstorms on June 18th and 19th. Temperatures will fall further:
- Maximum: 37-38 degrees Celsius
- Minimum: 26 degrees Celsius
- Humidity levels could reach 80-85% during these days, leading to some mugginess, but the intensity of the heat will be reduced.
Monsoon's Progress: When Will It Reach North India?
The southwest monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 24th this year, significantly earlier than usual. This was the earliest arrival since 2009. Although the monsoon's progress slowed after May 28th, it has now reactivated, according to the IMD.
The department stated that if conditions remain normal, the monsoon could reach Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan by June 25th. This would be a week earlier than the normal dates.
Relief for Farmers
Farmers, who are also battling the heat, are in dire need of rain, as the sowing process begins with the onset of the monsoon. Wheat and paddy cultivation in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh will be directly affected. Increased moisture will improve soil structure, leading to better crop yields.
However, the IMD has also indicated that some parts of Punjab, Haryana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu may experience below-normal rainfall. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor water management and drought-prone areas.
Approximately 42 percent of India's population depends on agriculture, which contributes 18.2 percent to the GDP. Therefore, the monsoon is the backbone not only of the farmers but also of the nation's economy. Good rainfall will boost the rural economy and may also curb inflation.
