Delhi's four-day heatwave streak ended Friday, but intense heat persists. A feeble western disturbance may bring thundery developments Saturday, causing a slight dip in temperatures, but no significant relief is expected until at least May 28. Heatwave conditions are likely to continue with temperatures hovering between 43-46°C.
British national Nick Booker has been widely praised online after rescuing a dehydrated Black Kite bird in Delhi during an extreme heatwave with temperatures reaching 41°C. Booker shared a video showing himself finding the distressed bird, moving it into shade, and offering water before contacting Wildlife SOS, which arrived within 20 minutes. The incident highlighted the surge in wildlife distress calls, with around 15 birds rescued that day compared to 2-3 on typical days.
Delhi government has identified thermal hotspots using satellite data to combat extreme heat, with areas like Ayanagar and Najafgarh showing high temperatures. The Heat Wave Action Plan 2026 prioritizes targeted interventions for vulnerable populations, including children, outdoor workers, and animals, with measures like increased ORS stock and water availability.
Delhi experiences rising temperatures with Safdarjung recording 40.1°C, three degrees above normal. IMD issues first yellow alert of the season for heatwave conditions from Wednesday to Friday, with mercury likely to reach 43°C. The city had brief relief on Saturday after Friday evening rain, but hot north-westerly winds and lack of western disturbances will push temperatures up in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and north Rajasthan for the next seven days.
