Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are currently witnessing one of the harshest heatwaves of the 2026 summer season, with temperatures rising between 43.4°C and 46.8°C and air quality staying in the “Poor” to “Moderate” category as of May 18, 2026. According to the provided information, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for severe heatwave conditions across Delhi-NCR over the coming days. Forecast models indicate that temperatures may continue hovering between 45°C and 47°C through the week due to persistent dry northwesterly winds and stagnant atmospheric conditions. The combination of extreme heat, elevated AQI levels, and strong dry winds has increased health concerns for residents, especially children, elderly citizens, and people with respiratory conditions.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Delhi-NCR Heatwave
IMD has issued a yellow alert. Severe heatwave conditions are expected. Day temperatures may remain near 45°C to 47°C. The intense summer pattern is being driven by dry west-northwesterly winds, strong surface heating, low moisture conditions, and poor atmospheric dispersion. The alert remains active across major NCR regions.
Delhi Air Quality Remains in “Poor” Category
Apart from rising temperatures, Delhi’s air quality is also under pressure. Current AQI is 268, placing Delhi in the “Poor” Air Quality Category.
Major Air Pollutants in Delhi
The primary pollutants contributing to deteriorating air quality include PM2.5 particles and heavy dust accumulation. Strong dry winds and stagnant atmospheric conditions are reportedly increasing particulate concentration levels across the city.
Air Quality Outlook for the Week
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi projects that AQI may fluctuate between “Moderate” and “Poor” throughout the week. Wind dispersion patterns may cause temporary improvement in some areas, but overall conditions are expected to remain unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Delhi Weekly Heatwave Forecast (May 18–24, 2026)
- Monday, May 18: Maximum 43°C–46.8°C, Minimum 26.3°C–34.8°C. Severe heatwave with strong surface winds (20–30 kmph).
- Tuesday, May 19: Maximum 46.2°C, Minimum 36.7°C. Yellow Alert. Brutal daytime heat with extremely high real-feel temperatures.
- Wednesday, May 20: Maximum 45.6°C, Minimum 35.5°C. Peak daytime heat continues with persistent heatwave conditions.
- Thursday, May 21: Maximum 45.3°C, Minimum 35.2°C. Clear skies with continuous dry heat.
- Friday, May 22: Maximum 44.5°C, Minimum 34.3°C. Slight dip possible but dry winds continue.
- Saturday, May 23: Maximum 45.6°C, Minimum 35.2°C. Scorching daytime sun, temperatures remain 3°C–5°C above normal.
- Sunday, May 24: Maximum 46.9°C, Minimum 34.6°C. Intense heat with high real-feel temperatures expected.
Hottest Areas in Delhi on May 18
- Safdarjung: 43.4°C (3°C above normal)
- Palam: 43.5°C
- Lodi Road: 43.8°C
- Ridge: 44.6°C
- Ayanagar: 44.4°C
Schools Closed Across Delhi, Noida and Gurugram
The severe heatwave has also impacted educational schedules. Major schools across Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram are closed for summer vacations from May 11 to June 30, 2026. The Delhi Directorate of Education reportedly implemented the early closure as a safety measure to protect students from heatstroke, dehydration, and severe heat exposure.
Limited Remedial Classes Allowed
Although regular classes are suspended, selected students in Classes 9, 10, and 12 may attend early-morning remedial sessions until May 23. These sessions are reportedly operating under strict indoor-only guidelines.
Delhi Heatwave Safety Recommendations
Stay Hydrated
Drink water frequently. Consume electrolyte-rich fluids. Avoid dehydration even if not feeling thirsty.
Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Residents should avoid direct sunlight exposure between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. This period is expected to experience maximum solar intensity and dangerous heat levels.
Use Protective Outdoor Gear
Recommended items include umbrellas, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats to reduce UV exposure and direct heat impact.
Sensitive Groups Should Stay Indoors
Children, elderly individuals, and asthma patients should limit outdoor physical activity because of poor AQI and high heat stress.
What to Drink During Delhi Heatwave
- Drink Water Frequently: Sip water every 45 to 60 minutes even without active thirst.
- ORS and Electrolyte Solutions Recommended: Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and electrolyte-based hydration drinks quickly restore fluid balance and essential salts.
- Traditional Cooling Drinks Suggested: Shikanji (lemon water), Chaas (buttermilk), unfiltered lassi, and Panna (green mango drink) help replace electrolytes and reduce body heat stress.
- Drinks to Avoid During Heatwave: Alcohol, hot tea, coffee, and sugary carbonated drinks may increase dehydration and act as diuretics.
What to Wear During Extreme Heatwave
- Recommended Fabric Type: Lightweight clothing, loose-fitting outfits, and 100% cotton or linen fabrics help sweat evaporation, better airflow, and temperature regulation.
- Best Clothing Colors for Summer: Light-colored garments such as white, cream, and pastel shades reflect sunlight better than dark fabrics.
- Head Protection is Important: Breathable cotton cloth, wide-brimmed hats, and umbrellas minimize direct scalp heat exposure and UV radiation.
- Essential Outdoor Accessories: UV-protection sunglasses and protective footwear help protect against eye strain and heat from hot pavements.
Why Delhi is Experiencing Extreme Heat
According to the provided information, the ongoing heatwave is being intensified by dry northwesterly winds, strong atmospheric stagnation, dust accumulation, and persistent clear skies. The absence of moisture and cloud cover is allowing higher daytime heating and reduced overnight cooling.
Conclusion
Delhi-NCR is currently facing an intense and prolonged heatwave, with temperatures touching nearly 47°C and air quality remaining in the “Poor” category. According to the provided information, the IMD has issued a yellow alert warning residents to prepare for several more days of severe summer conditions. Authorities have already closed schools across Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram while health advisories continue urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid peak daytime exposure, and limit outdoor activity. With dry winds, elevated AQI levels, and persistent heat expected through the week, residents are advised to follow all safety precautions carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the highest temperature recorded in Delhi on May 18, 2026?
A1. The highest temperature recorded was 46.8°C, with Ridge recording 44.6°C and Ayanagar recording 44.4°C.
Q2. What is the current AQI in Delhi?
A2. The current AQI is 268, placing Delhi in the “Poor” Air Quality Category.
Q3. Have schools been closed due to the heatwave?
A3. Yes, major schools across Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram are closed for summer vacations from May 11 to June 30, 2026.
Q4. What are the peak heat hours to avoid?
A4. Residents should avoid direct sunlight exposure between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Q5. What drinks are recommended during the heatwave?
A5. Recommended drinks include water, ORS, electrolyte solutions, Shikanji, Chaas, lassi, and Panna. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and sugary carbonated drinks.