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India’s national capital is reeling under an intense heatwave, with Delhi recording its hottest May night in 14 years, while electricity demand across the city and the country has surged to record-breaking levels. The oppressive weather has left residents struggling for relief even after sunset, raising concerns over public health, energy supply, and climate resilience.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi’s Safdarjung observatory recorded a minimum temperature of 31.9°C overnight — the warmest May night since 2012. Normally, night temperatures in the capital hover much lower during this period, allowing residents some respite from the scorching daytime heat. This year, however, the heat has persisted well into the night, creating dangerous “warm night” conditions.
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Delhi and the NCR region, warning that daytime temperatures may touch 44°C in the coming days. Areas across North India — including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab — are also witnessing severe heatwave conditions. Banda in Uttar Pradesh reportedly crossed 48°C, among the highest temperatures recorded this season.
Power Demand Hits New High
As millions rely heavily on air conditioners, coolers, and fans, Delhi’s electricity demand has surged sharply. Reports indicate that the city’s peak power demand crossed 8,000 MW this week and could soon touch 9,000 MW if the heatwave continues.
Across India, the situation is even more dramatic. National peak electricity demand touched a record 271 GW, breaking previous highs for the fourth consecutive day. Energy experts say the unprecedented demand is being driven almost entirely by cooling requirements amid the severe heat.
Reuters reported that localized power outages have already been observed in some regions despite India’s large installed electricity capacity. Analysts warn that continued extreme temperatures may strain coal supplies, renewable balancing systems, and transmission infrastructure.
Why Nights Are Becoming Hotter
Meteorologists say the unusually high night temperatures are linked to a combination of climate change, urban heat island effects, and prolonged heatwave patterns. Dense concrete structures, limited green cover, vehicle emissions, and trapped heat in urban environments prevent cities like Delhi from cooling after sunset.
Experts also point to the lingering impact of global warming and El Niño-like warming patterns, which are contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves across South Asia. The absence of strong western disturbances and low wind activity has further worsened conditions this season.
Health Risks Rising
Doctors and health officials have urged residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours. Warm nights are considered especially dangerous because the human body gets less opportunity to recover from daytime heat stress. Elderly people, children, outdoor workers, and those with existing health conditions are at greater risk of dehydration, exhaustion, and heatstroke.
Hospitals in several northern states have reportedly seen an increase in heat-related illnesses, while authorities are advising citizens to remain hydrated and limit direct exposure to sunlight.
Broader Weather Pattern Across India
While North India battles extreme heat, other parts of Asia are simultaneously facing intense rainfall and flooding. Weather experts describe the current climate situation as an example of increasingly volatile and extreme weather systems linked to global climate shifts.
Meteorologists expect heatwave conditions to continue over much of North and Central India through the next several days, although isolated thunderstorms later in the week may offer temporary relief in some regions.
