Delhi is experiencing a severe heatwave, prompting officials to issue heat alerts and leading parents to request early summer vacations for schools in the National Capital Region (NCR). Temperatures are forecast to reach between 43-45°C, with minimums around 25-27°C.
Heatwave Grips Delhi-NCR
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Yellow Alert for Delhi today. Sunday saw an Orange Alert for the capital, marking the third consecutive day of heatwave conditions. North, West, South, and Central Delhi are among the areas affected.
Parents Call for Early Vacations
Faced with extreme temperatures, parents are petitioning school administrations and authorities. They seek an early start to summer vacations to ensure student safety during the heatwave.
School Timings Adjusted
In response to the rising temperatures, Gautam Buddha Nagar Administration revised school timings. Effective April 27, 2026, all government, aided, and private schools will operate from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM . These revised timings will remain in effect until further notice.
Schools Must Follow Heatwave Protocol
Schools have been directed to implement the Heat Wave Protocol. This includes ensuring students are comfortable during class hours. They must also provide safe drinking water and appoint nodal officers.
Compliance Reports Required
All schools in Delhi must submit a compliance report to the Directorate of Education by May 2, 2026 . This report is required under the IMD Heat Wave Action Guidelines.
IMD Issues Broader Warnings
The IMD has warned of severe heatwave conditions in parts of Himachal Pradesh. Heatwave conditions are expected in Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and West Uttar Pradesh. Jammu-Kashmir, Punjab, East Uttar Pradesh, and North Rajasthan may also experience heatwaves.
In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, temperatures reached 42.5°C, 3-4 degrees above normal. Rajasthan's Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Jaipur are under a Yellow Alert. Haryana districts like Gurgaon and Faridabad are under an Orange Alert.
Public Health Advisories Issued
The IMD advises citizens to drink ample water. They recommend avoiding direct sunlight between 12 Noon and 4 PM . Wearing hats or umbrellas is suggested for protection. The public is also urged not to leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
