The weather in Delhi-NCR becomes extreme every year, swinging from intense heat to flood-inducing rain, and then to biting cold. On June 11, 2025, Delhi's temperature soared to 43.4°C, with a heat index of 48.9°C. Let's explore why the weather in Delhi-NCR is so extreme and the factors behind it.
Heat: Why So Intense?
The increasing severity of heat in Delhi-NCR is driven by several factors...
Climate Change:
Global warming is pushing temperatures higher. In 2025, the impact of heatwaves is more evident than ever. According to the IPCC report, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense.
Urbanization and Heat Island Effect:
The expansion of concrete jungles and rising vehicle numbers in Delhi have created a "heat island" effect. Urban temperatures surpass those of rural areas. Concrete and asphalt absorb heat during the day and release it at night, causing nights to remain warm.
Humidity:
During hot days, humidity levels rise, increasing the "feel like" temperature. On June 11, 2025, a temperature of 43.4°C combined with 70% humidity drove the heat index to 48.9°C, hindering the body's ability to cool itself as sweat fails to evaporate.
Monsoon Delays:
Delays in the monsoon extend the hot period, further elevating temperatures. In 2025, monsoon delays made the heat especially intense.
Rain: Why So Flood-Inducing?
During monsoon, Delhi-NCR experiences heavy rainfall leading to floods and waterlogging...
Source: aajtak
Monsoon Impact:
July-August brings monsoon rains, but sometimes in overwhelming volumes. In 2024, 228 mm of rain fell in a single day, causing severe street flooding.
Faulty Drainage Systems:
Inadequate drainage in Delhi results in rainwater accumulating on roads, exacerbating traffic jams and public distress.
Climate Change:
Climate change has altered rainfall patterns, leading to sudden and heavy downpours rather than steady rains, resulting in flash floods and waterlogging.
Thunderstorms:
Intense rainfall often accompanies thunderstorms, worsening conditions. In 2023, a thunderstorm brought 150 mm of rain in 24 hours, inundating roads.
Source: aajtak
Cold: Why So Biting?
Winters in Delhi-NCR are marked by biting cold, caused by several factors...
Cold Waves:
December and January bring cold waves carrying frigid winds from Siberia. In January 2023, the minimum temperature fell to a chilling 1.1°C.
Fog and Smog:
Winter fog and smog exacerbate cold by reducing temperature further. Visibility drops, posing risks to traffic and health.
High Atmospheric Pressure:
During winters, high atmospheric pressures stabilize winds, intensifying cold and making it more piercing.
Climate Change:
Climate change has increased temperature fluctuations in winter, lengthening the cold season.
Scientific Reasons: Why is Delhi-NCR Weather Extreme?
Several scientific reasons contribute to the extreme weather in Delhi-NCR...
Climate Change:
Rising greenhouse gases are elevating Earth's temperatures, altering weather patterns. According to the IPCC report, extreme weather events are more frequent and intense.
El Niño and La Niña:
These Pacific Ocean climate patterns affect Delhi-NCR's weather. El Niño heightens heat, while La Niña influences cold and rain. In 2024, El Niño's effects intensified the heat.
Urban Heat Island:
Concrete and vehicle emissions in cities raise temperatures. Reduced greenery in Delhi amplifies this effect.
Monsoon Systems:
Monsoon activities influence rainfall in Delhi-NCR, but climate change is altering these patterns. In 2023, monsoon delays prolonged the heat.
