The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday issued a “yellow alert” for a heatwave in Delhi from April 7 to 9, with the maximum temperature expected to reach between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius on April 7 and 8, and around 41 degrees Celsius thereafter. The IMD advised people to  avoid heat exposure– keep cool.  It further advised to drink sufficient water- even if not thirsty.

Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 38.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday, which is 3.1 notches above the seasonal average, according to the IMD. The minimum temperature of national capital was 18.5 degrees Celsius, which was 1.5 notch below the seasonal average. Meanwhile, the relative humidity oscillated between 43 per cent and 27 per cent. “Delhi is currently witnessing temperatures 3 degrees above normal, hovering around 38 to 40 degrees Celsius. There is a possibility of heatwave-like conditions by April 7. A western disturbance is expected to affect the Western Himalayan region between April 8 and 10, possibly leading to thunderstorms, strong winds and rainfall,” the IMD said.

The IMD has forecast mainly clear sky with heat wave for Monday. The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to be around 41 degrees Celsius and 21 degrees Celsius, respectively. The weather department has forecast heatwave conditions for next two days in Delhi.

According to the six-day forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the national capital will experience heatwave conditions with the maximum temperature ranging between 39 and 42 degrees Celsius.

“Heatwave conditions likely over Gujrat, Rajasthan, Haryana Chandigarh & Delhi and Punjab during next 4-5 days,” it said.