The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has clarified that the maximum temperature of over 52 degrees Celsius recorded in Delhi’s Mungeshpur on Wednesday was likely due to an error in the sensor or some local factor.
As per the official release, the IMD is currently examining the data and the sensors to determine the exact cause of this anomaly.
Temperature Variation Across Delhi
On the day in question, the IMD noted that the maximum temperatures in different parts of Delhi NCR varied significantly, ranging from 45.2 degrees Celsius to 49.1 degrees Celsius. The temperature reading of 52.9 degrees Celsius at Mungeshpur stood out as an outlier compared to other stations in the city.
Please click on the image to access the press release issued by the IMD.
The IMD suspects this unusually high reading could be due to an error in the sensor or some unique local condition affecting the measurement.
The IMD has stated that they are thoroughly examining the data and the sensors involved in recording this temperature to understand what went wrong. This examination will help ensure the accuracy of future temperature recordings.
In its official release, the IMD also mentioned that the severe heatwave conditions being experienced in Delhi are expected to reduce over the next two to three days. This reduction is attributed to the recent rains in many parts of Delhi, which have already led to a fall in temperatures.
In addition, the approaching western disturbance, along with rainfall and thunderstorms, and southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea moving towards northwest India, will contribute to a further drop in temperatures.
Union Minister’s Statement
Union Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju also addressed the issue, expressing doubts about the reported temperature. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he flagged the error, saying that a temperature of 52.3 degrees Celsius in Delhi is “very unlikely.” He assured that senior officials at the IMD have been asked to verify the report, and an official statement will be released soon.
It is not official yet. Temperature of 52.3°C in Delhi is very unlikely. Our senior officials in IMD have been asked to verify the news report. The official position will be stated soon. https://t.co/uaZMfRac1q
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 29, 2024
In a positive update, the IMD has predicted a gradual fall in maximum temperatures by 3-4 degrees Celsius over the next three to four days across Northwest and Central Bharat. This forecast brings some relief from the intense heatwave conditions that have been affecting the region.
Sudden Weather Change
Earlier in the day, parts of Delhi-NCR experienced a sudden change in weather, with light showers reported in some areas. This unexpected rain provided a brief respite from the scorching temperatures and contributed to the anticipated reduction in heatwave conditions.
The IMD’s ongoing investigation into the temperature recording error and their forecast of cooler weather ahead are hopeful signs for the residents of Delhi, who have been enduring extreme heat.
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