New Delhi, April 17 (NationPress) The temperatures in the Delhi-NCR region are anticipated to soar significantly in the upcoming days, as per the latest predictions from the IMD. The mercury is likely to surpass the 40-degree Celsius threshold soon, exacerbating heatwave conditions throughout the area. Concurrently, worsening air quality remains a serious health threat to the local populace.

This past Thursday marked the hottest day of the season thus far in Delhi-NCR.

At the Safdarjung weather station, the highest temperature registered was 40.3 degrees Celsius, which is about 3.4 degrees above the normal range. Other locations reported similarly high readings, with Lodhi Road at 40.1 degrees Celsius, Palam at 39.4 degrees Celsius, and the Ridge area reaching 41.4 degrees Celsius, all significantly exceeding typical levels.

On Friday, the maximum temperature recorded in Delhi was 37 degrees Celsius, while the minimum was 21 degrees. The forecast indicates clear weather in the days ahead. By April 18, the maximum temperature is expected to rise to 38 degrees Celsius (minimum 22 degrees), followed by 39 degrees (minimum 23 degrees) on April 19. Similar weather patterns are likely to continue on April 20, with temperatures hovering around 39 degrees and a minimum of 23 degrees.

The Meteorological Department warns that temperatures could hit the 40-degree mark on April 21 and 22. Both days are expected to feature clear skies, with maximum temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius and minimum temperatures around 24 degrees. The swift increase in temperature signifies the arrival of peak summer conditions in the region.

Cloud movement is expected on April 18, but precipitation is unlikely. The India Meteorological Department forecasts mostly clear weather for the following week, with only sporadic light clouds.

With no substantial rainfall anticipated, residents of Delhi-NCR face limited opportunities for relief from the heatwave conditions.

In addition to rising temperatures, air pollution levels have become increasingly concerning. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in various parts of Delhi and neighboring areas remains above safe limits, heightening the risk of respiratory issues, especially among vulnerable populations.

In Delhi, an AQI of 310 was noted in Bawana, 268 in Anand Vihar, 281 in Ashok Vihar, and 191 in Aya Nagar. Experts caution that an AQI exceeding 300 falls into the 'very poor' category and poses serious health risks with prolonged exposure.

In Greater Noida, the AQI at Knowledge Park-V reached 368, firmly placing it in the 'very poor' category, while Knowledge Park-III recorded an AQI of 275. In Noida, Sector-116 reported an AQI of 312, also within the 'very poor' range. Other sectors such as Sector-1 (269), Sector-125 (259), and Sector-62 (253) continue to report AQI levels ranging from 'poor' to 'very poor.'

Ghaziabad has emerged as the most affected area in the NCR, with Loni registering an AQI of 387—the highest in the region. Surrounding areas reported similarly alarming levels, including 362 in Ved Vihar-Loni, 334 in Indirapuram, 285 in Vasundhara, and 282 in Sanjay Nagar.

Authorities and health experts urge residents to minimize outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions as both heat and pollution levels continue to rise.