Delhi experienced an unprecedented heatwave in October 2024, with temperatures reaching record highs, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This marked the warmest October in the city since 1951, surpassing previous records for both maximum and minimum temperatures.
The Safdarjung observatory, Delhi’s primary weather station, recorded a monthly maximum temperature of 35.1 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature of 21.2 degrees Celsius. These figures significantly exceed the historical averages for October, indicating a dramatic shift in the city’s climate patterns.
This record-breaking heatwave raises significant concerns about the impact of climate change on Delhi and other urban centers across the globe. Experts warn that rising temperatures could exacerbate heat-related illnesses, strain infrastructure, and disrupt daily life.
The IMD’s data highlights the urgent need for adaptation strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. This includes initiatives to improve urban green spaces, promote energy efficiency, and develop heat-resilient infrastructure to ensure the well-being of Delhi’s residents in the face of extreme weather events.
