Delhi’s Temperature Hit 43.5C. Why Did It Feel Even More Intense?
Ninoda.com – Delhi has endured a relentless heatwave for weeks, with temperatures frequently surpassing 40°C. While weather apps provide a “real feel” measurement that often registers a few degrees higher, the true intensity of the heat becomes evident when stepping onto the city’s streets. On Tuesday, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) logged a peak air temperature of 43.5°C, yet a thermal camera used by Greenpeace India captured surface temperatures reaching up to 64°C in certain areas.
The Science Behind the Heat
The IMD’s data reflects the air temperature measured under controlled conditions, but thermal imaging captures the heat radiating from surfaces. Roads, concrete, vehicles, and other exposed materials can absorb and retain far more heat than the surrounding atmosphere, especially during prolonged periods of high temperatures. This creates a stark contrast between the official readings and the actual heat experienced by people in urban zones. Urban heat islands, where surfaces trap warmth, can elevate the perceived temperature significantly, particularly in areas lacking shade or greenery.
Voices from the Streets
Our journey began at midday near the IIT flyover in south Delhi, a bustling traffic hub. As Greenpeace researcher Nibedita Saha moved her camera from shaded areas beneath the flyover—where temperatures hit 42°C—to the bikers idling under direct sunlight, the reading surged to 64°C. Just a short distance from the camera, standing under a tree brought the temperature down to 39.8°C. “Exposure to such extreme heat can trigger serious health problems,” Nibedita explained. “Even a few feet of shade can make all the difference.”
“The core body temperature remains at 37°C, but extended exposure to high heat can push it beyond normal limits,” said Dr. A Fathahudeen, a pulmonologist. “When it exceeds 40°C, the body struggles to function. Symptoms include heavy sweating, headaches, and fatigue. In severe cases, confusion, dizziness, and seizures can occur. Without timely care, this may lead to organ failure and death.”
During our visit to the Red Fort in Old Delhi, we observed street vendors enduring the scorching conditions. Despite the relentless heat, a few customers lingered. Sanjana Ben, who sells dry fruits from the pavement, described her struggle: “At times, my head spins and my vision blurs. When the ground is blistering, I stand for a moment. But how long can I keep doing that?” Her face registered 40°C, but the ground beneath her stall measured 51.4°C, rising to 57°C within inches.
Mohammad Mahfouz Alam, a nearby footwear vendor, echoed similar challenges. “There’s no escape from the heat, day or night. I feel drained, my legs ache, and I return home exhausted,” he said. “Even after a bath, the fan blows hot air, and I toss and turn in bed.” He noted that the city’s weather has grown more unpredictable, disrupting seasonal patterns. “Summer, winter, and monsoon seasons are all changing. We who work on the streets feel the impact most.”
Alam pointed to the tree behind him, emphasizing its importance. “Without this tree, I wouldn’t be able to keep going. If it’s gone, everything will fall apart.” The disparity between official and real-world heat underscores the challenges faced by Delhi’s vulnerable populations, who often lack access to cooling spaces or respite from the sun.
