NEW DELHI: Delhi recorded its warmest night in 12 years on Wednesday, with minimum temperatures not dropping below 35.2 degrees Celsius, almost 8 degrees significantly above the season’s normal of 27.5 degrees Celsius.
The previous record for the warmest night was in June 2012, when the temperature reached 34 degrees Celsius. Just a day earlier, Delhi had recorded its warmest night of the season at 33.8 degrees Celsius.
The ongoing heatwave has led to a surge in heat stroke and exhaustion cases in Delhi-NCR hospitals. Medical professionals are advising the elderly and those with compromised immune systems to stay indoors to avoid the severe heat.
In response to the extreme temperatures, Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj announced that the Delhi government-run hospitals will allocate two beds each specifically for heatstroke patients, while LNJP Hospital will reserve five beds.
Relief from the sweltering heat may be on the horizon, as a private weather forecasting agency predicts light rainfall on Thursday due to a new western disturbance. This could bring some much-needed respite to the city.
Nevertheless, doctors have advised the elderly and immuno-compromised patients to avoid stepping outdoors.
(With inputs from PTI)