After Scorching 45°C Days, Delhi Braces for Sharp Cool-Down

Residents across the national capital woke up to another blistering afternoon on Wednesday as thermometers climbed past 45°C in multiple pockets. The highest reading came from the Ridge at 45.6°C, followed closely by Ayanagar at 45.4°C. Palam, Lodhi Road, and Safdarjung also posted temperatures between 44.3°C and 44.6°C, underlining how widespread the heat has become. The weather office has reiterated its heatwave warning and advised citizens to drink plenty of water and avoid unnecessary travel during the hottest part of the day. The good news is that this punishing spell is expected to break soon. Models indicate little change through Thursday, but a decisive shift is likely from Friday onward. Maximum temperatures could plunge six to eight degrees within three days, while minimums may drop four to six degrees, bringing genuine relief after weeks of extreme heat. The transition will be marked by building cloud cover and gusty winds. Thursday will start with partly cloudy skies and surface winds of 20–30 kmph, gusting to 40 kmph. Thunderstorms with 50–60 kmph winds are possible after sunset. Friday looks more unsettled, with widespread clouds, scattered rain, and stronger gusts nearing 80 kmph. The weekend should remain breezy and cooler, with light showers and continued cloudiness helping to keep daytime heat in check.