Delhi is likely to witness intense heat after March 18 as the minimum temperature may settle between 16 and 17 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature between 33 and 34 degrees Celsius.
The Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand until Sunday (March 16). A warning has also been issued for lightning and thunderstorms during this period. Meanwhile, temperatures in the plains are rising rapidly and could reach up to 40°C in the coming days.
On the day of Holi, Delhi-NCR experienced cloudy weather with light rain. The national capital recorded the hottest day of the year on Holi with a maximum temperature of 36.2°C, which was 7.3°C above normal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures will rise sharply from next week, leading to intense heat.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 193 at 4 PM on Saturday (March 15), which falls under the ‘moderate’ category. Due to rain, there was a slight improvement in pollution levels, but rising temperatures could once again affect air quality.
Rising Heat in Uttar Pradesh
Most districts are experiencing increasing heat in the state. The minimum temperature has reached 20°C, while the maximum temperature has exceeded 35°C in many districts. Varanasi recorded the highest temperature at 39.9°C. The heat is expected to intensify in the coming days.
Some parts of Rajasthan witnessed light rain and hailstorms, causing a drop in temperature by 1 to 3°C. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded in Bharatpur, Sikar, Alwar, Dholpur, and other districts. The Meteorological Department has issued warnings for strong winds and hailstorms in the coming days. In Kota, the maximum temperature was recorded at 39.1°C.
Several parts of Himachal Pradesh experienced rain and snowfall. According to the Meteorological Department, heavy rain or snowfall is expected in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts. Lahaul-Spiti is also expected to receive heavy snowfall, keeping the region cold.
